Tuesday, December 23, 2014

.
.
An earlier edition of the Guide on Tuesday listed the event as happening Tuesday night. It happens WEDNESDAY, on Christmas Eve, on the actual 100th anniversary. (The current edition is corrected). We regret any confusion of inconvenience that caused our readers. - ed.

♪ TUESDAY’s NEWS FEATURE ~ MUSIC & HISTORY
World War I “Christmas Truce Centenary Commemoration” is a concert Wednesday night in Santa Monica

♪ TUESDAY’s CONCERTS, JAMS, ETC.

♪ ONGOING EVENTS, including theatre this coming weekend

♪ TICKET ALERTS

-----------------

--------
♪ NEWS FEATURE:
MUSIC & HISTORY
--------

WORLD WAR I “CHRISTMAS TRUCE CENTENARY COMMEMORATION”

By Larry Wines

A Wednesday night event celebrates a moment from one hundred years ago, and it's something that speaks to our time. Christmas Eve, Wednesday, December 24, at 5 pm in Santa Monica, ROSS ALTMAN & FRIENDS will perform in memory of a moment that still shines for us, through the mists of a full century past, from a time of carnage and smoke and brutality and misery. It was a moment when people found within themselves the best of things in the worst of times.

Even with the coming of Christmas a hundred years ago, World War I was filled with disorienting new things. It was Franz Kafka meets the Industrial Revolution – it hadn’t yet become the high carnival of hell on earth. As 1914, the war’s first year, came to a conclusion, nothing else about the war appeared ready to stop. And yet, its trench warfare was still novel to those caught in it.

Though sticking your head up above the trench would get you killed instantly, there had been some youthful, cheerful fraternizing between opposing armies on both the Western and Eastern Fronts. It was probably borne of youth and an empathy that we cannot imagine. Knowing the misery of ubiquitously immobilizing, even entrapping mud, and living, inescapably, mired into the trenches – trenches whose bottoms were open toilets – was a shared experience. So why hate each other for it?

Good natured taunts. Songs. Tunes on bugles or other instruments – the trenches were rarely very far apart – were characteristic of the first months of war.

But nothing ever had happened, in any war, like what happened on Christmas Eve 1914. Soldiers of both sides began by entertaining the other side with a round of Christmas Carols. The Germans raised Christmas Trees above their embattlements, whatever shreds of trees could be found brought-in from a short distance behind their lines. They decorated them with pieces of food tins and scraps of shiny metal, and in the German fashion, placed lit candles in them. They illuminated their little trees with battle lanterns, as they risked hoisting them into the air above the trenches, the space that could so easily become a deadly horizontal hail of bullets. And they sang “Silent Nacht.” Not just to themselves. But to their enemies. The Brits heard, and listened. In return, they sang, “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.” More songs followed.

Before long, both sides left their trenches. Many soldiers emerged singing. All made their ways through the tangles of barbed wire, until, wearing the uniforms of enemies, they met in the deadly middle ground, the killing zone of “No-Man’s Land.” There, they exchanged small gifts, soldiers’ gifts of uniform insignia, decks of playing cards, newspapers and magazines. One British soldier traded for the infamous German spiked helmet. Young soldiers. Youthful idealism before an endless war would diminish it into cynical assessment of a “Lost Generation.”

That Christmas in that deadly space, they showed one another the pictures of wives and children and sweethearts and mothers. And they shared camaraderie, slaps on the back, shoulder clasps, food – and peace.

An enduring legend later began that they played a game of soccer (football). It didn’t, simply because the ground was so ripped to pieces from artillery explosions, shrapnel, and debris. British survivors recalled “there had been an effort to organize it, but it didn’t come off,” and newspapers reported the score of the match that never happened, feeding the legend. Still, you cannot discount that if anyone had a soccer ball, the soldiers, freed from confinement in the trenches, probably kicked it around.

The scene of the Christmas Truce was not a singularity. It happened in many places all along the trenches of the front lines. And it so alarmed the high commands of each of the armies that, once it was ended, massive artillery bombardments were conducted by units brought up from the rear, units that had not taken part in the impromptu Christmas truce. Orders went out that any further fraternization was treason and participants would be shot. Some commanders hoped that every soldier who had met in peace in No-Man’s Land would be killed in the bombardments. The following Easter, at one place on the lines, a small truce happened after commanders had forbidden it, and soldiers of one side received Easter Baskets from their foes.

Ahead, World War I would be characterized by unprecedented carnage, with U-Boats sinking passenger ships, land mines, poison gas, aerial bombing, mass assaults of soldiers from their own trenches meeting murderous machine-gun fire from the opposing trenches, and finally, exhaustion of the human supply of people to be killed, and battalions of new mechanized self-propelled weapons called tanks finally breaking stalemates.

No one had believed it could be so horrible. For those who had survived it, no one believed anything like it could ever happen again. They were wrong. But for one night, one silent night when the guns were stilled, the better angels of our natures had prevailed.

A fine video with intercut scenes from films is “The Christmas Truce” by history teacher SCOTT MacKENZIE, based on his reading of a soldier’s letter home about the Christmas Truce and traditional carols backing it; a must-see, it’s at:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehFjkS7UBUU

Singer-songwriter JOHN McCUTCHEON wrote the definitive musical tribute to that night, and his song inspired a movie. The song is “CHRISTMAS IN THE TRENCHES.” Ross Altman will perform it Wednesday night. You can find several video versions of McCutcheon performing it, some with historic photos. We recommend this one:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QTXhZ4uR6rs

The song is also available as audio-only, with printed lyrics, at:
http://www.elyrics.net/read/j/john-mcCutcheon-lyrics/christmas-in-the-trenches-lyrics.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehFjkS7UBUU

“WORLD WAR I: THE CHRISTMAS TRUCE,” a History Channel documentary, is a fine telling of what happened. It’s there in its 44:49 entirety, at:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=StL2F_Y91mk

FOR FIRST-HAND ACCOUNTS, ON VIDEO, FROM SOLDIERS WHO WERE THERE, the BBC made a moving documentary titled, “Peace in No Mans Land - The Christmas Truce – Amnesty,” that runs 55 minutes. It’s free, at:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8WgPi_me1p4

Also, for more music that captures the essence of the soldier’s experience of World War I, listen to “The Band Played Waltzing Matilda” written by Eric Bogle in 1971 and performed by JOHN McDERMOTT and THE IRISH ROVERS, with a photo montage of WWI. It’s about the Gallipoli campaign:

For more on the live event, contact Ross Altman at greygoosemusic@aol.com

-----------------

--------
♪ TUESDAY’s CONCERTS, JAMS, ETC.
--------

Tue, Dec 23, in Santa Monica:
5 pm WWI “CHRISTMAS TRUCE CENTENARY COMMEMORATION” with performances by ROSS ALTMAN & FRIENDS at the Quaker Meeting House, 1440 Harvard St, Santa Monica 90404.
+
An event tonight celebrates a moment from one hundred years ago, and it's something that speaks to our time. Tonight, ROSS ALTMAN & FRIENDS perform in memory of a shining memory of a moment that still shines for us, through the mists of time, from a time of carnage and smoke and brutality and misery. It was a moment when people found, within themselves, the best of things in the worst of times.
+
A hundred years ago tomorrow night, World War I and its trench warfare was still novel to those caught in it. There had been some youthful, cheerful fraternizing between opposing armies on both the Western and Eastern Fronts. But nothing ever had happened, in any war, like what happened on Christmas Eve 1914.
+
See much more in the NEWS FEATURE story in this edition.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Tue, Dec 23, in Burbank:
5:30 pm CODY BRYANT & EVAN MARSHALL return to play another “HAPPY HOUR HOOTENANNY,” before the big “GUITAR NIGHT” (that starts at 7:30), at Cody’s Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank 91506; 818-818-845-2425.
+
More at the venue at 7:30; see listing.
+
One-purchase-minimum is the cover. Venue has good Mexican food and full bar, and the band includes bigtime award-winners.

Tue, Dec 23, in Burbank:
7:30 pm Weekly “JOHN PISANO’S GUITAR NIGHT” showcase this time brings a “DJANGO REINHARDT TRIBUTE” with CHARLIE BISHARAT on violin, CODY BRYANT on guitar, JOHN PISANO on guitar, & JOHN LEFTWICH on bass, at Cody’s Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank 91506; 818-818-845-2425.
+
More at the venue at 5:30; see that listing.
+
One-purchase-minimum is the cover. Venue has good Mexican food and full bar, and the band includes bigtime award-winners.

Tue, Dec 23, in Altadena:
8 pm THE UNTOUCHABLES play a BENEFIT** at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena. Phone for reservations, 626-798-6236.
+
THE UNTOUCHABLES Jazz Band returns to the venue for a benefit and jazzy holiday performance. This talented group of musicians first came on the Pasadena jazz scene four years ago, and perfected their youthful approach to jazz on The Coffee Gallery's Backstage.
+
The five members of The Untouchables spent the past four months apart, sharpening their skills at institutions of higher learning around the world.
+
Keyboardist Eric Engler grew up in Chicago's suburbs listening to jazz tunes, taking piano and trumpet lessons. After moving to La Canada, he happily spent his high school years playing with jazz with The Untouchables. He continues to play both piano and trumpet and is currently studying Jazz Performance and Recording Arts at Baltimore's Peabody Conservatory.
+
Drummer Shan Haupt is beating his drums all over Europe as he studies at The American University of Paris, France. Shan is studying how jazz is interpreted throughout different regions of Europe and is the undisputed king of the music room at AUP.
+
Vocalist Nora Sagal is currently performing with the Harvard Opportunes while attending Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. While charming audiences with her jazzed up interpretations of holiday favorites, you may recognize Nora's voice. Nora sang “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” in the George Clooney movie, “The Monuments Men.”
+
Bass player Joshua Spry studies Music at Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania, where he also plays with the College's Jazz Ensemble. Although he's a music major with an emphasis in trumpet, Josh passionately plays the typical jazz acoustic stand-up bass and the bass guitar when playing with The Untouchables.
+
Saxophone player Matthew Schwartz currently performs with University of California - Berkeley's Jazz Ensemble, a group of ten elite musicians, ranging from two freshmen to graduate students. Matthew is the only alto sax in the Jazz Ensemble, which performs in various venues in the Berkeley area.
+
Pasadena Weekly's John Sollenburger said: “All The Untouchables members bring serious chops and a dedication to the genre that goes beyond their years.”
+
Bob Stane adds, “The Untouchables' classy, jazzy style is sure to put you in a holiday mood!”
+
** A portion of the evening's proceeds will benefit Pasadena's Union Station Homeless Services. In the spirit of the holiday season.
+
** The Untouchables also request that attendees bring a pound of coffee to donate to Union Station.
+
Tix, $20.

-----------------

--------
♪ ONGOING EVENTS,
including film & theatre
--------

Dec 16-Mar 15, in L.A.:
Opening of the new exhibition, “GIVE AND YE SHALL RECEIVE: GIFT GIVING IN THE MIDDLE AGES,” at the Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; parking is $20 daytime, $15 for evening programs.
+
Gift giving has held an important function in society since the Middle Ages, helping people to define their relationships to family and friends, to acquaintances and strangers, to God and to the church. This exhibition of intricate illuminated manuscripts examines models of gift giving found within their pages.
+
Admission to the Getty Center is FREE. Parking is $15 daytime, $10 for evening programs after 5 pm. Hours: Tues–Fri and Sun: 10 am–5:30 pm; Sat 10 am–9 pm. Closed Mondays.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Opened Dec 13, runs through May 10, 2015:
The GRAMMY Museum presents “THE TAYLOR SWIFT EXPERIENCE” as their newest special exhibition, opening Dec 13th on her 25th birthday. Includes never-before-seen photographs and home videos, interactive experiences, hand-written lyrics from her top-charting hits, and iconic costumes, to give visitors an in-depth look at seven-time GRAMMY winner Taylor Swift as a singer, musician, songwriter, entrepreneur and style icon. She is the only artist in history to have three million-selling weeks (2010's “Speak Now,” 2012's “RED” and 2014's “1989”). She is a global superstar and the youngest winner in history of the music industry's highest honor, the GRAMMY Award for “Album of the Year.” She is the first artist since the BEATLES (and the only female artist in history) to log six or more weeks at #1 in the U.S. with three consecutive studio albums. Taylor Swift has an album on Rolling Stone's prestigious “The 50 Greatest Albums of All Time (by women)” list, and Time magazine has named her one the of the “100 Most Influential People in the world,” while she is Billboard's youngest-ever “Woman of the Year” and the only artist to have been awarded this honor twice. The Taylor Swift Experience is on display in the GRAMMY Museum's “Special Exhibits Gallery,” where temporary exhibits are showcased on a rotating basis. Info, www.grammymuseum.org/thetaylorswiftexperience

Through Mar 9; PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION, in San Marino:
Times tba “IRISH & BRITISH ROOTS & AMERICAN PHOTOGRAPHERS” is an exhibition at the Mary Lou and George Boone Gallery in the Huntington Library, 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino 91108; 626-405-2100.
+
This traveling exhibition pairs, for the first time, approximately 150 works by American photographers Paul Caponigro (b. 1932) and Bruce Davidson (b. 1933), enlightened observers of Britain and Ireland in the 1960s and ’70s. For Caponigro, Ireland and Britain became sites of creative energy to which he returned repeatedly. Davidson brought the same gritty street sensibility that had made his Brooklyn Gang series a sensation among photograph collectors. The exhibition examines the artistic, social, and historical forces informing two master photographers as they bring American eyes to enduring landscapes and changing cultural scenes.
+
Runs Nov 8, 2014, through Mar 9, 2015.

-----------------

--------
♪ TICKET ALERTS
--------

Sun, Dec 28, 7 pm: MATT WITLER & BRONWYN KEITH-HYNES play the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675. Reservations (by phone only) at 626-798-6236.
+
MATT WITLER is a Boston based mandolin player who grew up in the Los Angeles area. Starting on the fiddle at the age of nine,Matt fell in love with old time and bluegrass music. At the age of 14 he picked up the mandolin and began to study music in earnest. Matt has spent the last four years studying at the Berklee College of Music. While Matt is rooted in the bluegrass tradition,he has explored and been influenced by Jazz,classical,and pop music. In 2012 he won first place in both the mandolin,and flatpick guitar contests at the Rockygrass bluegrass festival. Matt is a founding member of the Lonely Heartstring Band,a progressive acoustic band that is quickly gaining acclaim in the bluegrass community.
+
BRONWYN KEITH‐HYNES is a Boston-based musician originally from Charlottesville, Virginia. Accepted on a scholarship to Berklee College of Music at age 16,she graduated in 2013 with a Professional Diploma in Violin Performance. Bronwyn is fast gaining recognition for her fiddling across bluegrass and acoustic music circles. Her playing,improvising,and writing are informed by her past five years of intense immersion in the Boston acoustic music scene and time spent studying traditional Irish and Cape Breton music before moving to Boston. Bronwyn has performed with Peter Rowan,The Milk Carton Kids,Anais Mitchell,Joe Pug and Tony Trischka. In 2014 Bronwyn won first place in the Walnut Valley Old Time Fiddle Championship in Winfield,KS. Bronwyn was on staff this summer at Berklee College of Music Five Week Program,teaching private string lessons.
+
Matt and Bronwyn play original instrumental tunes as well as their favorite bluegrass numbers, folk songs, and fiddle tunes.
+
Tix, $15. This will sell-out early, with the much-anticipated homecoming by Matt.

+ + + + +

Mon, Dec 29, 8 pm: STRAIGHT NO CHASER: "THE HAPPY HOUR TOUR, " plays the Fred Kavli Theatre-Thousand Oaks Civic Arts, in Thousand Oaks.
+
If the phrase "male a cappella group" conjures up an image of students in blue blazers, ties, and khakis singing traditional college songs on ivied campuses ... think again. Straight No Chaser (SNC) are neither strait-laced nor straight-faced, but neither are they vaudeville-style kitsch. They have emerged as a phenomenon with a massive fanbase, numerous national TV appearances and proven success with CD releases. They're performing on the heels of the release of Under The Influence, their fourth album release through Atlantic Records. The album features contributions from superstars Jason Mraz, Rob Thomas, Phil Collins, Dolly Parton and more! Straight No Chaser is the real deal, the captivating sound of ten unadulterated human voices coming together to make extraordinary music that is moving people in a fundamental sense ... and with a sense of humor. On the road, Straight No Chaser has built a reputation as an unforgettable live act.
Tix at: http://m.ticketmaster.com/event/0B004CBBFC0EBCB0?artistid=1261643&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=1&brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned_Dec3

+ + + + +

Dec 31: HERSHEY FELDER’S “THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK SING-ALONG” at the Geffen Playhouse in L.A. is a New Year’s Eve special event at Midnight, and a tradition the singer has taken to other cities to ring-in previous years. Info & tix, www.GeffenPlayhouse.com, or call box office at 310-208-5454 or go in person to the box office during business hours.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Dec 31: “NEW YEAR'S EVE AT THE ARCADIA BLUES CLUB,” 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; www.arcadiabluesclub.com; 626-447-9349. The venue’s excellent New Year’s Eve Party always features great blues bands and early bird tix are on sale now; get the best seats and save money, 1st come, 1st served. Venue has full bar and NYE includes dinner. Venue always has good food with generous portions. Great place, but bring earplugs. Seriously. Substantial discount for advance tix: http://arcadiabluesclub.ticketleap.com/

Dec 31: “THE SHAMROCK'S NEW YEAR'S EVE” is taking reservations now for TWO New Year’s Eve parties; In the afternoon they celebrate the arrival of 2015 in Ireland at 4 pm Pacific time, with music by THE DUBLIN ROGUES, who are flying-in directly from Dublin the day before; this one (2-6 pm) lets you celebrate the New Year WITH FAMILY AND CHILDREN. Their SECOND New Year's Eve Party brings music by THE BRICK TOP BLAGGERS to welcome in 2015 in the Pacific time zone; a $10 per person non-refundable cover charge is required to secure that reservation, with table guaranteed from 8 pm; Champagne at midnight & party favors included. At the Shamrock Irish Pub and Eatery, 39252 Winchester Rd, Ste 145 Murrieta 92592; 951-696-5252; e-mail requests for NYE reservations to Paul@getshamrocked.com; more info, www.theshamrockirishpubandeatery.com

+ + + + +

Jan 6, 8 pm: WILLIE NELSON & FAMILY play the City National Grove of Anaheim.
+
This is a dinner-optional event. A three course prix fixe dinner including salad, entree options, and dessert is available for purchase for $30. If you plan to dine, we recommend arriving at 6 pm. Dinner concludes at 7:30 pm. Go to www.citynationalgroveofanaheim.com for menu details.
Tix at: http://ticketmaster.com/event/09004D30A3D45AAF?artistid=732878&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=2&brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned_Dec3

+ + + + +

Jan 7-Feb 1: “JACK LEMMON RETURNS” as performed by his son, Chris Lemmon in a musical story-telling style, plays the Broad Stage at the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center, 1310 11th St, Santa Monica 90401; 310-434-3200.
+
The son of the Hollywood legend who starred in “Some Like It Hot,” “The Odd Couple,” and ao much more, performs “an immensely personal, and ultimately heartwarming story” about his Academy Award-winning father and their enduring relationship. Written and directed by Hershey Felder and performed by Chris as his father, “Jack Lemmon Returns” is one-man show that captures the magic of a bygone era, when Marilyn Monroe, Gregory Peck, James Cagney, Jimmy Stewart, and Shirley MacLaine were but a handful of the many stars who would pass through the Lemmon's Hollywood Hills home. The performance includes George and Ira Gershwin's "Love is Here to Stay" and "'S Wonderful," “Jack Lemmon Returns” is a loving tribute to a world famous dad, told with respect and dignity. Tix now available at 310-434-3200; www.thebroadstage.com; www.events.smc.edu.

+ + + + +

Sat, Jan 10, at 2 & 7 pm: DAVE STAMEY, whose many awards most recently include “Male Performer of the Year” from the Western Music Association, and winner of the Will Rogers Award for Male Vocalist of the Year from the Academy of Western Artists, and a winner and five-time nominee for Songwriter Of The Year, plays the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675. Reservations (by phone only) at 626-798-6236. Don’t dawdle: he always sells-out here. Tix, either show, $25.

+ + + + +

Sat, Jan 10, 8 pm: THE JAYHAWKS, now on a West Coast Tour, play their L.A. show at the Fonda Theatre, 6126 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood. Tix, $30, now available at: http://www.fondatheatre.com/events/detail/255970

+ + + + +

Tue, Jan 13, 8 pm: “THE DROP: RYAN BINGHAM” in the Clive Davis Theatre at the Grammy Museum, L.A. General advance tix go on sale Thu, Dec 18, at noon. (American-Express-Card-only presale ended Wed, Dec 17, at 10:30 pm.)
+
Ryan Bingham needed some peace and quiet. Free of the burdens that had saddled him during the writing and recording of his recent albums, he relocated to an old Airstream trailer tucked away in the mountains of California, camping out for several weeks and embracing the solitude to dig down deep and craft his most powerful album yet: “Fear and Saturday Night” is set for release on Jan 20, 2015.
+
Bingham faces down his past with a poetic grace throughout the album. Recorded mostly live with a brand new backing band and under the guidance of producer-engineer Jim Scott, “Fear and Saturday Night” opens with "Nobody Knows My Trouble," an autobiographical ballad about trying to outrun a painful past and finding redemption both in the strings of a guitar and in hitting the road with the love of your life. The lead single, "Radio," is about coping with a darkness that doesn't want to let go, while "Hands of Time" deals with accepting what's behind you and moving forward with grit and determination. It's the hard-learned lessons, through both good times and bad, that helped make Bingham the man he is today, as a GRAMMY and Academy Award winner.
+
In an interview will discuss his new album and the journey he took to create it. Following that interview, moderated by Scott Goldman, Vice President of MusiCares and the GRAMMY Foundation, Bingham will perform. Doors open at 7:30 pm. Tix, $20, in-person at the Museum Box Office, by phone at 213-765-6803 or online at www.grammymuseum.org

+ + + + +

Wed, Jan 14, 8 pm: “AN EVENING WITH WALTER EGAN” in the Clive Davis Theatre at the Grammy Museum, L.A. General advance tix go on sale Thu, Dec 18, at noon. (American-Express-Card-only presale ended Wed, Dec 17, at 10:30 pm.)
+
Egan's composition "Hearts on Fire" was recorded by GRAM PARSONS and EMMYLOU HARRIS on the classic album “Grievous Angel.” More than just a writer and singer, Egan has played on many sessions and has worked with such luminaries as STEVIE NICKS, LINDSEY BUCKINGHAM, DON HENLEY, JACKSON BROWNE, LINDA RONDSTADT, and even played bass for the classic group, SPIRIT.
+
He’s best known among more mainstream audiences for his chart-topper, "Magnet and Steel." Walter Egan is more than a one-hit wonder. With numerous covers of his songs around the world, Egan has released ten solo CDs as well as three with the Brooklyn Coyboys and six with the Malibooz. "Magnet and Steel" has been featured in commercials and major motion pictures that include “Deuce Bigelow,” “Boogie Nights,” “Overnight Delivery,” and “The Night We Never Met.”
+
Today, Egan continues to play with his WALTERNATIVE Band and with his surf band, the MALIBOOZ. In February 2014, his tenth solo album, “Myth America,” was released on the Classic Music Vault label. His exhibit of paintings, "The Martyrs of Rock" was shown in Washington DC and will open at the Mister Musichead gallery in Los Angeles in January 2015.
+
Following an interview with Museum executive director, Bob Santelli, Egan will perform. Doors open at 7:30 pm. Tix, $20, in-person at the Museum Box Office, by phone at 213-765-6803 or online at www.grammymuseum.org

+ + + + +

Wed, Jan 14, 7 pm: AKIRA KUROSAWA's “RED BEARD” 50th-anniversary screening is in USC’s “Visions & Voices” series, in the Ray Stark Family Theatre, School of Cinematic Arts 108, on the USC Campus in University Park (L.A.) Admission is FREE and open to everyone, but RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED and it will fill-up. Reserve your seat online beginning Tue, Dec 9, at 9 am, at www. visionsandvoices.usc.edu
+
“Red Beard” is set in a public hospital serving the indigent in rural, feudal Japan. The 1965 film asks profound humanist and existential questions relating to social injustice. Is there a way out of the dispiriting cycle in which victims express their pain by hurting others? How can we break cycles of suffering and violence? “Red Beard” is the last black-and-white film by Kurosawa, and the last Kurosawa film starring legendary Japanese actor TOSHIRO MIFUNE.
+
The screening is presented in conjunction with a live stage performance the FOLLOWING NIGHT by LOS ANGELES POVERTY DEPARTMENT (“LAPD”), the renowned theatre troupe made up of homeless and formerly homeless artists, with the theatre company celebrating its own 30th anniversary. The actors present their acclaimed work “RED BEARD, ” also free, but requiring a reservation. This is quite special, with a classic film and live theatre together over two nights.
+
The other half of USC’s “RED BEARD / RED BEARD” presentation:
+
Thu, Jan 15, 7 pm: The “RED BEARD” theatrical performance by the LOS ANGELES POVERTY DEPARTMENT acting troupe, directed by John Malpede (without the film), is in the McClintock Theatre on the USC Campus in University Park (Los Angeles). Admission is FREE and open to everyone, but, like the above event, RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED and it will fill-up. Reserve your seat online beginning Tue, Dec 9, at 9 am, at www. visionsandvoices.usc.edu
+
Renowned theatre troupe LOS ANGELES POVERTY DEPARTMENT (“LAPD”), celebrating the 30th anniversary of their founding, is the first theatre company in the United States composed of homeless and formerly homeless artists. “LAPD” connects the experiences of people living in poverty to the social forces that shape their lives. “Red Beard/Red Beard” is a poetic and powerful work that challenges viewers to reflect on possibilities for breaking cycles of poverty.

Fri, Jan 16, 2-5 pm: Renowned theatre troupe LOS ANGELES POVERTY DEPARTMENT (“LAPD”), presents the “LAPD PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP” in the Wallis Annenberg Hall (ANN), Room 106, on the USC Campus in University Park (L.A.) Admission is FREE and open to everyone, but RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED and it will fill-up. Reserve your space online beginning Tue, Dec 9, at 9 am, at www. visionsandvoices.usc.edu
+
John Malpede and Henriëtte Brouwers of “LAPD” theatre will lead a performance workshop that draws on their acting troupe’s revolutionary practices for creating community-based theatre. Malpede founded the “Los Angeles Poverty Department” in 1985. He has taught at UCLA, at Tisch School of the Arts at NYU, and at the Amsterdam School for Advanced Research in Theater and Dance (DasArts). Brouwers is a performer, director and teacher who has worked with “LAPD” since 2000. Born in the Netherlands, Brouwers was invited to present her work in the United States by the Theatre Project in Baltimore in 1993, and has since performed and taught at universities and theatres around the country.

Jan 22: “ECLECTIC GUITARS” featuring ERIC JOHNSON & MIKE STERN at the City National Grove of Anaheim; tix now on sale. This one is NOT a dinner show. Tix at: http://ticketmaster.com/event/09004D43F109C986?artistid=735397&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=1&brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned_Dec3

Sat, Jan 24: “THE MET IN HD: LEHÁR'S ‘THE MERRY WIDOW’” is an HD Opera Broadcast (delayed broadcast), in the Eileen Norris Cinema Theatre / Frank Sinatra Hall, on the USC Campus in University Park (L.A.) It begins with a Pre-Opera Discussion at noon, followed by the HD broadcast at 1 pm. Admission is FREE and open to everyone, but RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED and it will fill-up. Reserve your space online beginning Tue, Dec 9, at 9 am, at www. visionsandvoices.usc.edu
+
The great Renée Fleming stars as the beguiling femme fatale who captivates all of Paris in Lehár’s enchanting operetta, seen in a new staging by Broadway virtuoso director and choreographer Susan Stroman (“The Producers, ” “Oklahoma!, ” “Contact”). Stroman and her design team of Julian Crouch (“Satyagraha, ” “The Enchanted Island”) and costume designer William Ivey Long (“Cinderella, ” “Grey Gardens, ” “Hairspray”) have created an art-nouveau setting that climaxes with singing and dancing grisettes at the legendary Maxim’s.

+ + + + +

Sun, Jan 25, 8 pm: JESSE COOK plays the City National Grove of Anaheim. This is a dinner-optional event. A three-course prix fixe dinner including salad, entree options, and dessert is available for purchase for $30. If you plan to dine, we recommend arriving at 6 pm. Dinner concludes at 7:30 pm. Go to www.citynationalgroveofanaheim.com for menu details.
Tix at: http://ticketmaster.com/event/09004D22F74E37FC&brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned_Dec3

Feb 21 & 22: "THIS AIN'T NO MOUSE MUSIC!" is a great documentary with Cajun, Zydeco, and Texas Blues, playing only on Feb 21st and 22nd at the Art Theatre, 2025 E 4th St, Long Beach 90814; 562-438-3723; arttheatrelongbeach.com. With a limited run, it will sell-out early.
+
The film is the Story of Chris Strachwitz and Arhoolie Records., a feature-length documentary by Chris Simon and Maureen Gosling. “Smokin’ hot!” — Radio One, New Zealand. “One of the best music documentaries around...This film puts the heart and soul back into music and opens your mind to incredible artists you may never have heard of.” — The Film Reel, Toronto.
+
“Chris Strachwitz is a detective of sounds, an archaeologist of the deep American music, music with roots that strike straight into the country’s heartland. He is the guiding force behind the legendary Arhoolie Records, producing albums that the Rolling Stones and many others played the grooves right off of. Since 1960, Strachwitz has been recording the authentic pulses of the great American music, throbbing away in the backwoods of the nation. His label offers an unparalleled catalogue of blues, Cajun, wild Hillbilly country, Tex-Mex and New Orleans R&B. These diverse musical strands seem to have grown right out of the ground they are played on. With tape-recorder in hand, Strachwitz traveled to plantations and prisons, roadhouses and whorehouses, churches and bayou juke joints. He returned with recordings that would revolutionize the sound of popular music. In This Ain't No Mouse Music!, their vivid portrait of an obsessive sonic sleuth, filmmakers Chris Simon and Maureen Gosling take a hip-shaking stroll from New Orleans to Appalachia and right into very the DNA of rock’n’roll. In this beautifully shot film, we come face to face with the creators of indigenous music, from the great Clifton Chenier to fiddler Michael Doucet, from Flaco Jimenez to the Pine Leaf Boys, playing songs that are endemic to their place and circumstance, to dialect and class, to climate and landscape. Their music is now highly endangered by the merciless steamroller of pop culture, assimilation and commercialism, which makes Strachwitz's desperate pursuit to track down every last artist all the more urgent. But these songs aren’t meant to be locked away in a Smithsonian vault to be decoded by folklorists and musical anthropologists. This film is a living cultural history with a soundtrack that bites and kicks and screams. Even 50 years later, Arhoolie’s records remain alive, unruly and still so sharp that some songs can cut you right down to the soul. — Jeffrey St. Clair, Author ‘Born Under a Bad Sky.’”
+
More at: http://nomousemusic.com

Monday, December 22, 2014

.
.
Merry Hanukah, Happy Christmas, or Solstikwanyulchrismakah, and / or best wishes for the holiday of your choice.

As for the title of today’s edition? “Yule tide” fell on Sunday, and for those who don’t know, it’s the ancient pagan holiday built on the Winter Solstice. Even with its forgotten roots and confusion from being included in Christmas carols, it remains a day that makes everyone happy. Why? Simple! Because the amount of sunshine / daylight keeps getting just a little bit longer each day until the Summer Solstice arrives in June. Beyond that notation / history lesson? Whether or not you celebrate or observe anything special this time of year, we want to impart one thought:

Mon, Dec 22, in Burbank:
5:30 pm CODY BRYANT & EVAN MARSHALL play a “HAPPY HOUR HOOTENANNY,” before the night of bluegrass (that starts at 7:30), at Cody’s Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank 91506; 818-818-845-2425.
+
More at the venue at 7:30: top-rated bluegrass; see listings.
+
One-purchase-minimum is the cover. Venue has good Mexican food and full bar, and the band includes bigtime award-winners.

Mon, Dec 22, in Burbank:
7:30-10:30 pm THE BROMBIES play their weekly bluegrass residency for a full evening at Cody’s Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank 91506; 818-818-845-2425.
+
Go early. See the 5:30 pm listing for the “why.”
+
One-purchase-minimum is the cover. Venue has good Mexican food and full bar, and the band includes bigtime award-winners.

Mon, Dec 22, in Altadena:
8 pm: “BIG CHRISTMAS SHOW: JIM CURRY'S TRIBUTE TO THE MUSIC OF JOHN DENVER” at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675. Reservations (by phone only) at 626-798-6236.
+
The same show on Dec 21 SOLD-OUT early.
+
Husband and wife team Jim and Anne Curry deliver the multi-platinum hits of the great John Denver in a fun-filled evening of singing and stories. Tribute artist Jim Curry's voice was heard in the CBS-TV movie “Take Me Home: The John Denver Story.” He has performed Denver's music in sold-out shows throughout the country and has emerged as today's top performer of Denver's vast legacy of multi-platinum hits. Jim's uncanny ability to mirror John's voice and clean-cut look takes you back to the time when "Rocky Mountain High" "Sunshine" "Calypso" and "Annie's Song" topped the charts, and his popular music had the heartfelt message of caring for the earth and caring for each other. Denver's message is worth repeating: "Be kind to the Earth and to each other." Jim performs with his wife Anne who plays mandolin and guitar and sings harmony.
+
Tix, $18.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Mon, Dec 22, in downtown L.A.:
8 pm THE KLEZMATICS bring their “HAPPY JOYOUS HANUKAH” concert to the Walt Disney Concert Hall at the Music Center, 111 S Grand Av, downtown Los Angeles 90012; 323-850-2000.
+
THE KLEZMATICS won a Grammy a few years back for their WOODY GUTHRIE album. They always bring something extra with their delightfully raucous Klezmer music. Expect some Klezmer-Americana and a very good time.
+
Tix, 213-972-7211; www.musiccenter.org

+=+=+=+=+=+

Mon, Dec 22, in SFV (Chatsworth):
8:30 pm “10th DAY OF CHRISTMAS” at the venue brings some extras and the weekly “TALENT CONTEST” with cash prizes, plus a performance by the CHAD WATSON BAND, at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St, Chatsworth; 818-341-0166.
+
CHAD WATSON BAND plays 8:30-9:30 pm.
TALENT CONTEST runs 9:45 pm to closing, and is hosted by CHAD WATSON.
+
This is L.A.’s last real honky-tonk, and always fun. No cover, full bar.

-----------------

--------
♪ ONGOING EVENTS,
including film & theatre
--------

Dec 16-Mar 15, in L.A.:
Opening of the new exhibition, “GIVE AND YE SHALL RECEIVE: GIFT GIVING IN THE MIDDLE AGES,” at the Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; parking is $20 daytime, $15 for evening programs.
+
Gift giving has held an important function in society since the Middle Ages, helping people to define their relationships to family and friends, to acquaintances and strangers, to God and to the church. This exhibition of intricate illuminated manuscripts examines models of gift giving found within their pages.
+
Admission to the Getty Center is FREE. Parking is $15 daytime, $10 for evening programs after 5 pm. Hours: Tues–Fri and Sun: 10 am–5:30 pm; Sat 10 am–9 pm. Closed Mondays.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Opened Dec 13, runs through May 10, 2015:
The GRAMMY Museum presents “THE TAYLOR SWIFT EXPERIENCE” as their newest special exhibition, opening Dec 13th on her 25th birthday. Includes never-before-seen photographs and home videos, interactive experiences, hand-written lyrics from her top-charting hits, and iconic costumes, to give visitors an in-depth look at seven-time GRAMMY winner Taylor Swift as a singer, musician, songwriter, entrepreneur and style icon. She is the only artist in history to have three million-selling weeks (2010's “Speak Now,” 2012's “RED” and 2014's “1989”). She is a global superstar and the youngest winner in history of the music industry's highest honor, the GRAMMY Award for “Album of the Year.” She is the first artist since the BEATLES (and the only female artist in history) to log six or more weeks at #1 in the U.S. with three consecutive studio albums. Taylor Swift has an album on Rolling Stone's prestigious “The 50 Greatest Albums of All Time (by women)” list, and Time magazine has named her one the of the “100 Most Influential People in the world,” while she is Billboard's youngest-ever “Woman of the Year” and the only artist to have been awarded this honor twice. The Taylor Swift Experience is on display in the GRAMMY Museum's “Special Exhibits Gallery,” where temporary exhibits are showcased on a rotating basis. Info, www.grammymuseum.org/thetaylorswiftexperience

Through Mar 9; PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION, in San Marino:
Times tba “IRISH & BRITISH ROOTS & AMERICAN PHOTOGRAPHERS” is an exhibition at the Mary Lou and George Boone Gallery in the Huntington Library, 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino 91108; 626-405-2100.
+
This traveling exhibition pairs, for the first time, approximately 150 works by American photographers Paul Caponigro (b. 1932) and Bruce Davidson (b. 1933), enlightened observers of Britain and Ireland in the 1960s and ’70s. For Caponigro, Ireland and Britain became sites of creative energy to which he returned repeatedly. Davidson brought the same gritty street sensibility that had made his Brooklyn Gang series a sensation among photograph collectors. The exhibition examines the artistic, social, and historical forces informing two master photographers as they bring American eyes to enduring landscapes and changing cultural scenes.
+
Runs Nov 8, 2014, through Mar 9, 2015.

Sun, Dec 28, 7 pm: MATT WITLER & BRONWYN KEITH-HYNES play the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675. Reservations (by phone only) at 626-798-6236.
+
MATT WITLER is a Boston based mandolin player who grew up in the Los Angeles area. Starting on the fiddle at the age of nine,Matt fell in love with old time and bluegrass music. At the age of 14 he picked up the mandolin and began to study music in earnest. Matt has spent the last four years studying at the Berklee College of Music. While Matt is rooted in the bluegrass tradition,he has explored and been influenced by Jazz,classical,and pop music. In 2012 he won first place in both the mandolin,and flatpick guitar contests at the Rockygrass bluegrass festival. Matt is a founding member of the Lonely Heartstring Band,a progressive acoustic band that is quickly gaining acclaim in the bluegrass community.
+
BRONWYN KEITH‐HYNES is a Boston-based musician originally from Charlottesville, Virginia. Accepted on a scholarship to Berklee College of Music at age 16,she graduated in 2013 with a Professional Diploma in Violin Performance. Bronwyn is fast gaining recognition for her fiddling across bluegrass and acoustic music circles. Her playing,improvising,and writing are informed by her past five years of intense immersion in the Boston acoustic music scene and time spent studying traditional Irish and Cape Breton music before moving to Boston. Bronwyn has performed with Peter Rowan,The Milk Carton Kids,Anais Mitchell,Joe Pug and Tony Trischka. In 2014 Bronwyn won first place in the Walnut Valley Old Time Fiddle Championship in Winfield,KS. Bronwyn was on staff this summer at Berklee College of Music Five Week Program,teaching private string lessons.
+
Matt and Bronwyn play original instrumental tunes as well as their favorite bluegrass numbers, folk songs, and fiddle tunes.
+
Tix, $15. This will sell-out early, with the much-anticipated homecoming by Matt.

+ + + + +

Mon, Dec 29, 8 pm: STRAIGHT NO CHASER: "THE HAPPY HOUR TOUR, " plays the Fred Kavli Theatre-Thousand Oaks Civic Arts, in Thousand Oaks.
+
If the phrase "male a cappella group" conjures up an image of students in blue blazers, ties, and khakis singing traditional college songs on ivied campuses ... think again. Straight No Chaser (SNC) are neither strait-laced nor straight-faced, but neither are they vaudeville-style kitsch. They have emerged as a phenomenon with a massive fanbase, numerous national TV appearances and proven success with CD releases. They're performing on the heels of the release of Under The Influence, their fourth album release through Atlantic Records. The album features contributions from superstars Jason Mraz, Rob Thomas, Phil Collins, Dolly Parton and more! Straight No Chaser is the real deal, the captivating sound of ten unadulterated human voices coming together to make extraordinary music that is moving people in a fundamental sense ... and with a sense of humor. On the road, Straight No Chaser has built a reputation as an unforgettable live act.
Tix at: http://m.ticketmaster.com/event/0B004CBBFC0EBCB0?artistid=1261643&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=1&brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned_Dec3

+ + + + +

Dec 31: HERSHEY FELDER’S “THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK SING-ALONG” at the Geffen Playhouse in L.A. is a New Year’s Eve special event at Midnight, and a tradition the singer has taken to other cities to ring-in previous years. Info & tix, www.GeffenPlayhouse.com, or call box office at 310-208-5454 or go in person to the box office during business hours.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Dec 31: “NEW YEAR'S EVE AT THE ARCADIA BLUES CLUB,” 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; www.arcadiabluesclub.com; 626-447-9349. The venue’s excellent New Year’s Eve Party always features great blues bands and early bird tix are on sale now; get the best seats and save money, 1st come, 1st served. Venue has full bar and NYE includes dinner. Venue always has good food with generous portions. Great place, but bring earplugs. Seriously. Substantial discount for advance tix: http://arcadiabluesclub.ticketleap.com/

Dec 31: “THE SHAMROCK'S NEW YEAR'S EVE” is taking reservations now for TWO New Year’s Eve parties; In the afternoon they celebrate the arrival of 2015 in Ireland at 4 pm Pacific time, with music by THE DUBLIN ROGUES, who are flying-in directly from Dublin the day before; this one (2-6 pm) lets you celebrate the New Year WITH FAMILY AND CHILDREN. Their SECOND New Year's Eve Party brings music by THE BRICK TOP BLAGGERS to welcome in 2015 in the Pacific time zone; a $10 per person non-refundable cover charge is required to secure that reservation, with table guaranteed from 8 pm; Champagne at midnight & party favors included. At the Shamrock Irish Pub and Eatery, 39252 Winchester Rd, Ste 145 Murrieta 92592; 951-696-5252; e-mail requests for NYE reservations to Paul@getshamrocked.com; more info, www.theshamrockirishpubandeatery.com

+ + + + +

Jan 6, 8 pm: WILLIE NELSON & FAMILY play the City National Grove of Anaheim.
+
This is a dinner-optional event. A three course prix fixe dinner including salad, entree options, and dessert is available for purchase for $30. If you plan to dine, we recommend arriving at 6 pm. Dinner concludes at 7:30 pm. Go to www.citynationalgroveofanaheim.com for menu details.
Tix at: http://ticketmaster.com/event/09004D30A3D45AAF?artistid=732878&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=2&brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned_Dec3

+ + + + +

Jan 7-Feb 1: “JACK LEMMON RETURNS” as performed by his son, Chris Lemmon in a musical story-telling style, plays the Broad Stage at the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center, 1310 11th St, Santa Monica 90401; 310-434-3200.
+
The son of the Hollywood legend who starred in “Some Like It Hot,” “The Odd Couple,” and ao much more, performs “an immensely personal, and ultimately heartwarming story” about his Academy Award-winning father and their enduring relationship. Written and directed by Hershey Felder and performed by Chris as his father, “Jack Lemmon Returns” is one-man show that captures the magic of a bygone era, when Marilyn Monroe, Gregory Peck, James Cagney, Jimmy Stewart, and Shirley MacLaine were but a handful of the many stars who would pass through the Lemmon's Hollywood Hills home. The performance includes George and Ira Gershwin's "Love is Here to Stay" and "'S Wonderful," “Jack Lemmon Returns” is a loving tribute to a world famous dad, told with respect and dignity. Tix now available at 310-434-3200; www.thebroadstage.com; www.events.smc.edu.

+ + + + +

Sat, Jan 10, at 2 & 7 pm: DAVE STAMEY, whose many awards most recently include “Male Performer of the Year” from the Western Music Association, and winner of the Will Rogers Award for Male Vocalist of the Year from the Academy of Western Artists, and a winner and five-time nominee for Songwriter Of The Year, plays the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675. Reservations (by phone only) at 626-798-6236. Don’t dawdle: he always sells-out here. Tix, either show, $25.

+ + + + +

Sat, Jan 10, 8 pm: THE JAYHAWKS, now on a West Coast Tour, play their L.A. show at the Fonda Theatre, 6126 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood. Tix, $30, now available at: http://www.fondatheatre.com/events/detail/255970

+ + + + +

Tue, Jan 13, 8 pm: “THE DROP: RYAN BINGHAM” in the Clive Davis Theatre at the Grammy Museum, L.A. General advance tix go on sale Thu, Dec 18, at noon. (American-Express-Card-only presale ended Wed, Dec 17, at 10:30 pm.)
+
Ryan Bingham needed some peace and quiet. Free of the burdens that had saddled him during the writing and recording of his recent albums, he relocated to an old Airstream trailer tucked away in the mountains of California, camping out for several weeks and embracing the solitude to dig down deep and craft his most powerful album yet: “Fear and Saturday Night” is set for release on Jan 20, 2015.
+
Bingham faces down his past with a poetic grace throughout the album. Recorded mostly live with a brand new backing band and under the guidance of producer-engineer Jim Scott, “Fear and Saturday Night” opens with "Nobody Knows My Trouble," an autobiographical ballad about trying to outrun a painful past and finding redemption both in the strings of a guitar and in hitting the road with the love of your life. The lead single, "Radio," is about coping with a darkness that doesn't want to let go, while "Hands of Time" deals with accepting what's behind you and moving forward with grit and determination. It's the hard-learned lessons, through both good times and bad, that helped make Bingham the man he is today, as a GRAMMY and Academy Award winner.
+
In an interview will discuss his new album and the journey he took to create it. Following that interview, moderated by Scott Goldman, Vice President of MusiCares and the GRAMMY Foundation, Bingham will perform. Doors open at 7:30 pm. Tix, $20, in-person at the Museum Box Office, by phone at 213-765-6803 or online at www.grammymuseum.org

+ + + + +

Wed, Jan 14, 8 pm: “AN EVENING WITH WALTER EGAN” in the Clive Davis Theatre at the Grammy Museum, L.A. General advance tix go on sale Thu, Dec 18, at noon. (American-Express-Card-only presale ended Wed, Dec 17, at 10:30 pm.)
+
Egan's composition "Hearts on Fire" was recorded by GRAM PARSONS and EMMYLOU HARRIS on the classic album “Grievous Angel.” More than just a writer and singer, Egan has played on many sessions and has worked with such luminaries as STEVIE NICKS, LINDSEY BUCKINGHAM, DON HENLEY, JACKSON BROWNE, LINDA RONDSTADT, and even played bass for the classic group, SPIRIT.
+
He’s best known among more mainstream audiences for his chart-topper, "Magnet and Steel." Walter Egan is more than a one-hit wonder. With numerous covers of his songs around the world, Egan has released ten solo CDs as well as three with the Brooklyn Coyboys and six with the Malibooz. "Magnet and Steel" has been featured in commercials and major motion pictures that include “Deuce Bigelow,” “Boogie Nights,” “Overnight Delivery,” and “The Night We Never Met.”
+
Today, Egan continues to play with his WALTERNATIVE Band and with his surf band, the MALIBOOZ. In February 2014, his tenth solo album, “Myth America,” was released on the Classic Music Vault label. His exhibit of paintings, "The Martyrs of Rock" was shown in Washington DC and will open at the Mister Musichead gallery in Los Angeles in January 2015.
+
Following an interview with Museum executive director, Bob Santelli, Egan will perform. Doors open at 7:30 pm. Tix, $20, in-person at the Museum Box Office, by phone at 213-765-6803 or online at www.grammymuseum.org

+ + + + +

Wed, Jan 14, 7 pm: AKIRA KUROSAWA's “RED BEARD” 50th-anniversary screening is in USC’s “Visions & Voices” series, in the Ray Stark Family Theatre, School of Cinematic Arts 108, on the USC Campus in University Park (L.A.) Admission is FREE and open to everyone, but RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED and it will fill-up. Reserve your seat online beginning Tue, Dec 9, at 9 am, at www. visionsandvoices.usc.edu
+
“Red Beard” is set in a public hospital serving the indigent in rural, feudal Japan. The 1965 film asks profound humanist and existential questions relating to social injustice. Is there a way out of the dispiriting cycle in which victims express their pain by hurting others? How can we break cycles of suffering and violence? “Red Beard” is the last black-and-white film by Kurosawa, and the last Kurosawa film starring legendary Japanese actor TOSHIRO MIFUNE.
+
The screening is presented in conjunction with a live stage performance the FOLLOWING NIGHT by LOS ANGELES POVERTY DEPARTMENT (“LAPD”), the renowned theatre troupe made up of homeless and formerly homeless artists, with the theatre company celebrating its own 30th anniversary. The actors present their acclaimed work “RED BEARD, ” also free, but requiring a reservation. This is quite special, with a classic film and live theatre together over two nights.
+
The other half of USC’s “RED BEARD / RED BEARD” presentation:
+
Thu, Jan 15, 7 pm: The “RED BEARD” theatrical performance by the LOS ANGELES POVERTY DEPARTMENT acting troupe, directed by John Malpede (without the film), is in the McClintock Theatre on the USC Campus in University Park (Los Angeles). Admission is FREE and open to everyone, but, like the above event, RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED and it will fill-up. Reserve your seat online beginning Tue, Dec 9, at 9 am, at www. visionsandvoices.usc.edu
+
Renowned theatre troupe LOS ANGELES POVERTY DEPARTMENT (“LAPD”), celebrating the 30th anniversary of their founding, is the first theatre company in the United States composed of homeless and formerly homeless artists. “LAPD” connects the experiences of people living in poverty to the social forces that shape their lives. “Red Beard/Red Beard” is a poetic and powerful work that challenges viewers to reflect on possibilities for breaking cycles of poverty.

Fri, Jan 16, 2-5 pm: Renowned theatre troupe LOS ANGELES POVERTY DEPARTMENT (“LAPD”), presents the “LAPD PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP” in the Wallis Annenberg Hall (ANN), Room 106, on the USC Campus in University Park (L.A.) Admission is FREE and open to everyone, but RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED and it will fill-up. Reserve your space online beginning Tue, Dec 9, at 9 am, at www. visionsandvoices.usc.edu
+
John Malpede and Henriëtte Brouwers of “LAPD” theatre will lead a performance workshop that draws on their acting troupe’s revolutionary practices for creating community-based theatre. Malpede founded the “Los Angeles Poverty Department” in 1985. He has taught at UCLA, at Tisch School of the Arts at NYU, and at the Amsterdam School for Advanced Research in Theater and Dance (DasArts). Brouwers is a performer, director and teacher who has worked with “LAPD” since 2000. Born in the Netherlands, Brouwers was invited to present her work in the United States by the Theatre Project in Baltimore in 1993, and has since performed and taught at universities and theatres around the country.

Jan 22: “ECLECTIC GUITARS” featuring ERIC JOHNSON & MIKE STERN at the City National Grove of Anaheim; tix now on sale. This one is NOT a dinner show. Tix at: http://ticketmaster.com/event/09004D43F109C986?artistid=735397&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=1&brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned_Dec3

Sat, Jan 24: “THE MET IN HD: LEHÁR'S ‘THE MERRY WIDOW’” is an HD Opera Broadcast (delayed broadcast), in the Eileen Norris Cinema Theatre / Frank Sinatra Hall, on the USC Campus in University Park (L.A.) It begins with a Pre-Opera Discussion at noon, followed by the HD broadcast at 1 pm. Admission is FREE and open to everyone, but RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED and it will fill-up. Reserve your space online beginning Tue, Dec 9, at 9 am, at www. visionsandvoices.usc.edu
+
The great Renée Fleming stars as the beguiling femme fatale who captivates all of Paris in Lehár’s enchanting operetta, seen in a new staging by Broadway virtuoso director and choreographer Susan Stroman (“The Producers, ” “Oklahoma!, ” “Contact”). Stroman and her design team of Julian Crouch (“Satyagraha, ” “The Enchanted Island”) and costume designer William Ivey Long (“Cinderella, ” “Grey Gardens, ” “Hairspray”) have created an art-nouveau setting that climaxes with singing and dancing grisettes at the legendary Maxim’s.

+ + + + +

Sun, Jan 25, 8 pm: JESSE COOK plays the City National Grove of Anaheim. This is a dinner-optional event. A three-course prix fixe dinner including salad, entree options, and dessert is available for purchase for $30. If you plan to dine, we recommend arriving at 6 pm. Dinner concludes at 7:30 pm. Go to www.citynationalgroveofanaheim.com for menu details.
Tix at: http://ticketmaster.com/event/09004D22F74E37FC&brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned_Dec3

Feb 21 & 22: "THIS AIN'T NO MOUSE MUSIC!" is a great documentary with Cajun, Zydeco, and Texas Blues, playing only on Feb 21st and 22nd at the Art Theatre, 2025 E 4th St, Long Beach 90814; 562-438-3723; arttheatrelongbeach.com. With a limited run, it will sell-out early.
+
The film is the Story of Chris Strachwitz and Arhoolie Records., a feature-length documentary by Chris Simon and Maureen Gosling. “Smokin’ hot!” — Radio One, New Zealand. “One of the best music documentaries around...This film puts the heart and soul back into music and opens your mind to incredible artists you may never have heard of.” — The Film Reel, Toronto.
+
“Chris Strachwitz is a detective of sounds, an archaeologist of the deep American music, music with roots that strike straight into the country’s heartland. He is the guiding force behind the legendary Arhoolie Records, producing albums that the Rolling Stones and many others played the grooves right off of. Since 1960, Strachwitz has been recording the authentic pulses of the great American music, throbbing away in the backwoods of the nation. His label offers an unparalleled catalogue of blues, Cajun, wild Hillbilly country, Tex-Mex and New Orleans R&B. These diverse musical strands seem to have grown right out of the ground they are played on. With tape-recorder in hand, Strachwitz traveled to plantations and prisons, roadhouses and whorehouses, churches and bayou juke joints. He returned with recordings that would revolutionize the sound of popular music. In This Ain't No Mouse Music!, their vivid portrait of an obsessive sonic sleuth, filmmakers Chris Simon and Maureen Gosling take a hip-shaking stroll from New Orleans to Appalachia and right into very the DNA of rock’n’roll. In this beautifully shot film, we come face to face with the creators of indigenous music, from the great Clifton Chenier to fiddler Michael Doucet, from Flaco Jimenez to the Pine Leaf Boys, playing songs that are endemic to their place and circumstance, to dialect and class, to climate and landscape. Their music is now highly endangered by the merciless steamroller of pop culture, assimilation and commercialism, which makes Strachwitz's desperate pursuit to track down every last artist all the more urgent. But these songs aren’t meant to be locked away in a Smithsonian vault to be decoded by folklorists and musical anthropologists. This film is a living cultural history with a soundtrack that bites and kicks and screams. Even 50 years later, Arhoolie’s records remain alive, unruly and still so sharp that some songs can cut you right down to the soul. — Jeffrey St. Clair, Author ‘Born Under a Bad Sky.’”
+
More at: http://nomousemusic.com

+++++++++++++++++++
Now, here is the
complete edition
as originally published
+++++++++++++++++++

Take a deep breath, and remember to exhale. Now contemplate the tuneful times that await you within, and smile. As the stress of the holidays (hopefully) gives way to the joy of spending time with loved ones, some things remain the same. One of them? Artists always seem to have unique takes on things. Accordingly, here are a couple of thoughts for you this weekend:

"Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything." ~ Plato.

Okay, Philosophy Corner visited. There are holiday party / music events, concerts, jams, chances to do Christmas Carol sing-alongs, and for those who need it, music that has absolutely nothing to do with the holidays. Let’s get started.

Sat & Sun, Dec 20 & 21, in T.O.:
2 & 7 pm "THE NUTCRACKER BALLET" staged by PACIFIC FESTIVAL BALLET for four performances at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Thousand Oaks.
+
Both days at 2 & 7 pm.
+
All Ages. Bring your kids to this fully staged, beautifully produced production of "The Nutcracker Ballet" Featuring Tiler Peck, soloist with the New York City Ballet, and more than 150 dancers. It even SNOWS on stage.

Sun, Dec 21, in Monrovia:
4 pm WILDFIRE plays a house concert in Monrovia. Reservations get directions at 626-422-4365.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Sun, Dec 21, in Pasadena:
6 pm "HOLIDAY HOOTENANNY" with lots of participatory live music, at the Urban Homestead, 631 Cypress Av, Pasadena 91103.
+
Jordanne and the Dervaes family tell us it's their last Hootenanny of 2014, and includes "Candlelight Caroling," hot food, drinks, and more. Spaces are limited so make a reservation at info@urbanhomestead.org or text or call 626-765-5704.
+
Go early for the "Pop Up Shop," 4-6 pm to look for unique or last minute gifts.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Sun, Dec 21, in Altadena:
6 pm THE BRITON ENSEMBLE performs their annual holiday show of Christmas and seasonal music at the Altadena Community Church, 943 E Altadena Dr, Altadena (up Lake Av, above the Coffee Gallery, right turn on Altadena Dr.)
+
Free admission. Doors at 5:30 pm. Donations go to the Altadena Community Church in gratitude for the space.
+
This is always a fine program of spirited singing and there is a great sense of community at this show. Hear a sample from a couple of years ago at:
+
www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXC8IRL3Lis and see
+
More info about this year's show: http://folkmusic.caltech.edu/Briton%20ensemble%202.jpg

+=+=+=+=+=+

Sat, Dec 20, in Rancho Palos Verdes:
6-10 pm ANDY HILL, RENEE SAFIER, MARTY RIFKIN, and KIRK MAKIN play a “HOLIDAY PARTY HOUSE CONCERT” hosted by Don & Jean Owen in Rancho Palos Verdes 90275. Reservations get directions by email to jeanowenbabycare@gmail.com
+
Andy & Renee are the leaders of the award-winning HARD RAIN. MARTY RIFKIN performs as keyboardist for BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN and many others.
+
Admission, $25. Includes dinner and a raffle ticket for great prizes. BYOB.

Sat, Dec 20, in Altadena:
7 pm JIM KWESKIN & JULI CROCKETT play the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675. Reservations (by phone only) at 626-798-6236.
+
Folk legend JIM KWESKIN of JUG BAND fame, back in the day, shared stages with Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin and The Doors, and stood toe to toe with them as a national star. He created one of the bedrock guitar styles of the folk revival, adapting the ragtime-blues fingerpicking of artists like Mississippi John Hurt and Blind Boy Fuller to the more complex chords of pop and jazz. In the early 60’s,Kweskin founded the Jim Kweskin Jug Band, with Fritz Richmond, Geoff Muldaur, Bob Siggins and Bruno Wolfe. Maria Muldaur, formerly with the Even Dozen Jug Band, joined the band in 1963.
+
JULI CROCKETT has starred with her band, THE EVANGENITALS around L.A. and at festivals. As a playwright / director, she is best known for her adaptations of classic works of literature and philosophy. Her work has been presented at the REDCAT and 24th Street Theatre (Los Angeles),TENT group (Portland, Maine), and Red Room (New York); festivals: Downtown Film Festival's Sustainable LA and Edge of the World Festival (Los Angeles), Los Angeles Edinburgh Fringe Festival (Venue 13,Scotland.) See more at: http://www.julicrockett.com/
+
Both headliners will be joined by a backing band of jazz heavyweights, including bassist Edwin Livingston (Natalie Cole), violinist Benedikt Brydern (Hot Club Quartet), and pianist Michael Feldman (Evangenitals, Freddy and Francine). Don't miss it.
+
Tix, $22.50. This will sell-out.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Sat & Sun, Dec 20 & 21, in T.O.:
7 pm "THE NUTCRACKER BALLET" staged by PACIFIC FESTIVAL BALLET for four performances at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Thousand Oaks.
+
Both days at 2 & 7 pm.
+
All Ages. Bring your kids to this fully staged, beautifully produced production of "The Nutcracker Ballet" Featuring Tiler Peck, soloist with the New York City Ballet, and more than 150 dancers. It even SNOWS on stage.

Sat, Dec 20, in Palmdale:
7 pm Annual “HOLIDAY PARTY” with performances by headliners THE BROWNE SISTERS (of nationwide Celtic Festival fame), plus BRAD ROGERS, JIM BARILE, ELAYNA, WAYNE SLATER-LUNSFORD, RALPH ANGEL, and more, at Butlers Coffee, 40125 10th St West, Suite I, Palmdale (just N of Antelope Valley Mall, N of 14 Fwy.)
+
This is quite a hefty lineup for the pleasant little neat n’ tidy coffeehouse in the desert. Get there a bit early to get a good seat and place an order for a hot beverage (which you are sure to want; iit gets cold after dark in the high desert, though it’s warm in the venue).
+
Free show, one item purchase (food or drink) minimum.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Sat, Dec 20, in L.A.:
7-ish pm AN AMERICANA / ALT-COUNTRY / OR HONKY-TONK BAND plays the FREE weekly show on the stage adjacent to EB's Wine Bar & Grill at the original L.A. Farmers Market complex, 6333 W 3rd St, Ste 408, in the Fairfax District of Los Angeles 90036.
+
No cover.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Sat, Dec 20, in Santa Monica:
7:30 pm: “CHRISTMAS IN IRELAND” with LUNASA and KARAN CASEY plays its final local show of its tour, tonight at the Broad Stage in the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center.
+
This is exceptionally excellent, with one of Ireland's best known groups, LUNASA. Lúnasa has performed at the Hollywood Bowl, Dublin's National Concert Hall, the Sydney Opera House and at the White House. Lúnasa's inventive arrangements and bass driven grooves have steered Irish acoustic music into surprising new territory. Its recordings are hailed internationally among the best and most important world music albums and its blend of intelligence, innovation, virtuosity, and passion has Lúnasa at the forefront of Celtic music.
+
They are joined by the incredible KARAN CASEY who has long been one of the most innovative, provocative and imitated voices in Irish traditional and folk music.
+
Watch a video of their performance at: www.thebroadstage.com/en/Performances/World/Productions/lunasa/
+
Tix at: 310-434-3200, or www.thebroadstage.com/portal/?to=loader.asp?target=hall.asp?event=1216&interface=2

Sat, Dec 20, in San Diego Co (Carlsbad):
7:30 pm “KOFFEEHOUSE MUSIC” co-presents the “biggest holiday concert ever” at the venue, the Park Hyatt Aviara, with headliner KATIE OHH, plus TREVOR DAVIS, and the very rootsy OTTOPILOT, at the Park Hyatt Aviara, 7100 Aviara Resort Dr, Carlsbad; 760-448-1234.
+
Set Times:
7:30 pm - Trevor Davis
8 pm - Ottopilot
8:30 pm - Katie Ohh
+
KATIE OHH:
She’s the small town girl with a big voice who won $1 million last summer on NBC's “The Winner Is.” Katie delivered show stopping vocal performances for the 101 judges and live studio audience, as well as the millions of viewers across America. Meet Katie Ohh, whose powerhouse vocals, musical authenticity and spotlight-ready charisma signal the arrival of an ascending and essential new artist. On her self-titled EP, she introduces a captivating sound that is part country, part rock and all Katie Ohh. From Powhatan Point, Ohio, situated between Captina Creek and the Ohio River, Katie Ohh has made the giant career leap to Los Angeles. Now in her early twenties, she established herself back home with performances in clubs, concerts (including the famous “Jamboree in the Hills” festival) and with successive appearances on the legendary Wheeling Jamboree broadcast on WWVA - the second longest running radio show in the history of American radio. Obviously, a move to Nashville – where she had visited many times – would have been the more obvious career choice, but Katie knew that would come in time. When Katie journeyed to California she met musical friends, played great gigs and made the fateful decision to live in in Los Angeles. For her debut EP, she and producer Dan Weidlein crafted a distinctive framework to surround her evocative voice and sterling songs, including an epic string section worthy of a symphony orchestra. But while these sounds are dramatic, they never overshadow the artistry of Katie Ohh; the sincerity of her melodies and the revelations within her narratives. She says that the truth is in the telling. “When I sing, the best way to tell the story is to think about the words. The listener can tell when you mean it or you don’t.” Discreetly tattooed on the inside of Katie’s arm is the Latin phrase “Alis volat propriis” which translates as “she flies with her own wings.” It is a fitting declaration of the determination that transported her from a tiny town in Ohio to the entertainment crossroads of the world. “It makes me crazy not to be doing something,” she concludes “I’m not the type of person to sit back and wait for things to come to me. I want audiences to understand that I’m a country girl, but I have eclectic musical elements within my sound. And I want everyone to know that good things are coming in the very near future.”
+
TREVOR DAVIS:
The passion and talent of singer-songwriter Trevor Davis seamlessly combines pop, rock, and soul to deliver well-constructed songs that are highly original. Using rich metaphors and clever play on words, he communicates to his listeners with music that is both thought provoking and meaningful. Trevor captivates his audience with a strong, soulful voice that can reach to a cutting falsetto with ease, while engaging them with witty banter and dance moves as entertaining as his music. Trevor loves abstract thoughts and double meanings. He doesn’t like to state the obvious. He loves music that makes you think but is also emotional. He says, “Honesty influences me the most." The seeds for Trevor's music were planted early. His life led him on an uneasy road. He didn't have a father and his single mother struggled to provide for his needs. His grandmother helped in raising him because his mother struggled with drugs. When he was young his mother and him attended a gospel church. This is where he would soak in the music that would come to influence him so much. He says, “Music has to have conviction. I need to believe that people actually experience what they are singing about.” Because of this, Trevor is thankful for his hard and hurtful past. He can mix his past with hope, which gives him a larger spectrum to work with in his songwriting. Since Trevor started playing the independent music scene ten years ago, his fan base has grown immensely. Less than two years from writing his first song, he routinely played packed out shows in San Diego. He has received radio airplay and has started touring the west coast as often as he can. All the time spent on the road and playing shows has allowed Trevor to craft his abilities and truly create his own sound.
+
OTTOPILOT:
Launched in 2009, as a rock-based acoustic brother duo, Ottopilot is rapidly becoming a lucrative act to follow. Their Dynamic, acoustic, Pop-rock feel, sets them apart from the typical garage jam band. The Brothers are enjoying moderate success at the moment by sharing the stage with impressive acts such as Mat Kearney, Gavin Degraw, Michelle Branch, Sugar Ray and the list goes on. The name Ottopilot reflects their personal view on pure freedom. "The ability to believe and achieve full success while maintaining a clear and lucid, state of mind. In 2010, the brothers released a hit single "Streetlight". With the help of live shows, radio airplay, and word of mouth, the ripple effect began to take place. They were quoted that year by John Phillip Willie, writer/editor for San Diego Troubadour. "Of all the new artist leads that I have ever been given, Ottopilot by far, exudes the most talent.” Their new album is underway and with the help from their local support, Ottopilot is ready and eager to take off!
+
Technically, tix are free, but they will try like crazy toi get you to bopok a room package.
+
For details, call 760-448-1234 and use promo code "KATIE" for the Standard Guest Room + Concert Package or VIP Suite + Concert Package. Some tix may also remain at: http://koffeehouse.com/event.cfm?id=183382&ref=EA4E34FD808ECFDC5AF13B5BF343B625128A34DEA5A2E1767EA5775AD7EFB8E8&utm_campaign=website&utm_source=sendgrid.com&utm_medium=email

Sat, Dec 20, in L.A.:
7:45 pm Monthly “ARC MUSIC NIGHT” is a jam ’til all hours with opportunities for short solo sets, at the ARC Center, 6456 Whitsett Av, North Hollywood 91606. Info, contact LSchallert@aol.com

+=+=+=+=+=+

Sat, Dec 20, in San Pedro:
8 pm: “ERIC RIGLER & DIRK FREYMUTH: A CELTIC CHRISTMAS,” at Alvaʻs Showroom, 1417 W 8th St, San Pedro 90732.
+
ERIC RIGLER (uilleann pipes & whistles) and DIRK FREYMUTH (guitar) team up once again to create a night of acoustic Celtic music. Drawing from the Christmas repertoire, as well as ancient and soulful Irish melodies, barn-burning jigs & reels, and themes from Eric’s film & television work, the duo combines with WANDA LAW on Irish fiddle to produce a moving musical experience.
+
ERIC RIGLER's legendary 40-year career on the bagpipes is world-famous. From his haunting solos on the current Starz TV series, “Outlander,” to performing "Amazing Grace" at President Reagan's funeral, to hundreds of appearances, films and recordings such as “Braveheart,” “Titanic,” “Men In Black 3,” “Cinderella Man,” and “Austin Powers,” to CDs For Phil Collins, Josh Groban, Faith Hill, Keith Urban, and Rod Stewart, to TV's “Black Sails,” “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” “Battlestar Galactica,” “Crossing Jordan,” “The Simpsons,” and “South Park,” Eric has been called "the most recorded piper in history".
+
DIRK FREYMUTH’s gifted and diverse talent on the guitar spans genres from being a member of the Minneapolis power-pop trio, HINDU RODEO, to Dublin’s BAROQUE ORCHESTRA OF IRELAND. As a studio player he has recorded for the Kottonmouth Kings, The Proclaimers, John Gorka, and many others. Earning music degrees from the University of Southern California, Dirk has produced more than fifty albums in a wide variety of styles, most notably Classical and Celtic, where he first collaborated with Eric Rigler.
+
More at: www.alvasshowroom.com/calendar.php
+
Reservations 800-403-3447. Tix, $25.

Sat & Sun, Dec 20 & 21, CONCERT, in Glendora:
8 pm Sat; 2 pm Sun; Annual “CITRUS COLLEGE CHRISTMAS SHOW” at the Haugh Performing Arts Center Theater, on the Citrus College campus in Glendora.
+
The show completes its run this weekend, changing to the schedule indicated. The production’s first half is traditional Christmas music sung by the Citrus singing groups. The second half is an original Christmas play featuring Santa himself.
+
Tix, $24 regular, $22 students and seniors, $15 for children age 16 and under. Fun for all ages. Citrus box office is 626-963-9411, open Tuesday thru Saturday 11 am-4 pm.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Sat, Dec 20, in San Pedro:
8 pm GOLDEN STATE POPS ORCHESTRA present their annual “HOLIDAY POPS SPECTACULAR!” one performance only at the magnificent Warner Grand Theatre, 478 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; 310-548-2494.
+
Info and tix at: www.grandvision.org
+
The presenting organization, Grand Vision Foundation, is the official Friends Group of the Warner Grand Theatre, a facility of the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs.

Sun, Dec 21, in Altadena:
Noon THE ABBY HOLLANDER BAND brings bluegrass to the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; Phone for reservations, 626-798-6236.
+
Bob Stane says, “This bluegrass band is chock-full of cute and super talented young people who are already professionals. They went to the best music schools and are original and super smooth. See both Abby's photo and page...”
+
www.abbyhollander.com
+
Bob continues, “Also note, the show is at noon on Sunday. I will let you guess why, other than The Coffee Gallery Backstage is humming that day (and night) from 9 am until 11 pm with world class musicians. More at www.coffeegallery.com”
+
THE ABBY HOLLANDER BAND formed in Brooklyn, NY in 2013 “to perform Abby's original songs in a traditional yet unique bluegrass setting. The group focuses on arranging its material - originals and standards alike - to showcase the vocals and instrumentation simply and creatively,” says their promo.
+
Abby Hollander is a singer, guitar player, and award-winning songwriter (Podunk Bluegrass Music Festival 2014 Songwriting Competition) originally from Woodstock, NY. Coming from a family of musicians, she was raised on bluegrass. After moving to Brooklyn in 2011, she quickly found herself surrounded by incredibly talented players from all over the country. Ellery Marshall, a Los Angeles native, provides the banjo sound that is one of the group's trademark features. Jeff Picker, from Portland, Oregon, lends his remarkable skills to the guitar and vocals, and Dave Speranza, another talented musician from Portland, plays bass.
+
The band's debut album is set to release in the Spring of 2015, with a special pre-release at its December 2014 shows in Los Angeles. Recorded directly to tape at Seaside Lounge Studios in Brooklyn, NY, the self-titled album has 8 tracks, alternately driving and sweet, but always bluegrass."
+
Tix, $18.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Sun, Dec 21, in Griffith Park (L.A.):
1-3 pm Monthly “WESTERN MUSIC JAM” cosponsored by the “WESTERN MUSIC ASSOCIATION’s CALIFORNIA CHAPTER,” at the Autry National Center / Autry Museum of the American West, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, Los Angeles 90027; 323-667-2000.
+
Plenty of chairs set up to sit and listen; all western/cowboy/cowgirl musicians, storytellers, and cowboy poets are invited to take part. Performers and WMA members get free admission to the museum, so go early, have lunch, and tour the galleries. Audience members pay regular museum admission.

Sun, Dec 21, in T.O.:
2 & 7 pm "THE NUTCRACKER BALLET" staged by PACIFIC FESTIVAL BALLET for four performances at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Thousand Oaks.
+
Runs both Sat & Sun at 2 & 7 pm.
+
All Ages. Bring your kids to this fully staged, beautifully produced production of "The Nutcracker Ballet" Featuring Tiler Peck, soloist with the New York City Ballet, and more than 150 dancers. It even SNOWS on stage.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Sun, Dec 21, CONCERT, in Glendora:
2 pm CLOSING PERFORMANCE: Annual “CITRUS COLLEGE CHRISTMAS SHOW” at the Haugh Performing Arts Center Theater, on the Citrus College campus in Glendora.
+
The show completes its run this weekend The production’s first half is traditional Christmas music sung by the Citrus singing groups. The second half is an original Christmas play featuring Santa himself.
+
Tix, $24 regular, $22 students and seniors, $15 for children age 16 and under. Fun for all ages. Citrus box office is 626-963-9411, open Tuesday thru Saturday 11 am-4 pm.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Sun, Dec 21, in Burbank:
2 pm BLUE MONDAY BAND plays early at Cody’s Viva Cantina, 900 W Riverside Dr, Burbank; 818-845-2425; www.vivacantina.com
+
See 6 pm listing for additional show on one or the other of the venue’s two stages.
+
No cover; one purchase minimum.

Sun, Dec 21, in Altadena:
3 pm P. F. SLOAN with CREED BRATTON plays the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675. Reservations (by phone only) at 626-798-6236.
+
P. F. SLOAN wrote "Secret Agent Man" And he wrote “Eve of Destruction,” one of the most important songs in music history: it is credited by some musicologists as the song that awoke a generation and gave people all over the world a voice, and 18 year olds the vote. He wrote many famous songs for The Turtles, Johnny Rivers, The 5th Dimension, The Searchers, The Grass Roots, Herman's Hermits, and many others as well as his own folk standards.
+
Just nominated to be inducted into The Songwriter's Hall Of Fame, P. F. SLOAN received two standing ovations last month at this venue. He delivers an evening stuffed with music, history and good times.
+
CREED BRATTON opens this matinee show. He is one of the stars of “The Office” TV show, and of the original GRASS ROOTS.
+
Tix, $20.

Sun, Dec 21, in Burbank:
6 pm The monthly “MESSAROUND” brings its “CHRISTMAS MELTDOWN” featuring sets by THE SOUTH BAY SURFERS, BRIAN HOGAN & GREG ERBA, THE LIVINGSTONS, and more, at Cody’s Viva Cantina, 900 W Riverside Dr, Burbank; 818-845-2425; www.vivacantina.com
+
See 2 pm listing for additional show on one or the other of the venue’s two stages.
+
No cover; one purchase minimum.

Sun, Dec 21, in T.O.:
7 pm "THE NUTCRACKER BALLET" staged by PACIFIC FESTIVAL BALLET for four performances at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Thousand Oaks.
+
Runs both Sat & Sun at 2 & 7 pm.
+
All Ages. Bring your kids to this fully staged, beautifully produced production of "The Nutcracker Ballet" Featuring Tiler Peck, soloist with the New York City Ballet, and more than 150 dancers. It even SNOWS on stage.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Sun, Dec 21, in OC (Anaheim):
SOLD OUT: 7 pm "A CELTIC HOLIDAY" with CRAIC IN THE STONE plays the Chance Theater, 5552 E La Palma Av, Anaheim 92807.
+
Music by CRAIC IN THE STONE
Book by Jocelyn A. Brown, Karen O’Hanlon, and Jennifer Ruckman
Directed by Karen O’Hanlon
Music direction by Jocelyn A. Brown
Executive producer Scott & Georgia Well
+
Rediscover rich Celtic musical traditions throughout the night with a holiday concert of rousing pub songs, ethereal melodies, and familiar spiritual tunes, all woven together with traditional folktales. Bring the whole family and warm-up by the hearth with a cup of tea or a pint of plain with the Chance’s own Celtic band, CRAIC IN THE STONE.
+
One show remains before closing:
Tue, Dec 23, 8 pm.
+
Tix, $40, at: https://m.ovationtix.com/#/pr/928599

+=+=+=+=+=+

Sun, Dec 21 & Mon, Dec 22, in Altadena:
SOLD OUT: 7 pm “BIG CHRISTMAS SHOW: JIM CURRY'S TRIBUTE TO THE MUSIC OF JOHN DENVER” at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675. Reservations (by phone only) at 626-798-6236.
+
Dec 21 is SOLD-OUT. Get tix for Dec 22 promptly or be disappointed.
+
Husband and wife team Jim and Anne Curry deliver the multi-platinum hits of the great John Denver in a fun-filled evening of singing and stories. Tribute artist Jim Curry's voice was heard in the CBS-TV movie “Take Me Home: The John Denver Story.” He has performed Denver's music in sold-out shows throughout the country and has emerged as today's top performer of Denver's vast legacy of multi-platinum hits. Jim's uncanny ability to mirror John's voice and clean-cut look takes you back to the time when "Rocky Mountain High" "Sunshine" "Calypso" and "Annie's Song" topped the charts, and his popular music had the heartfelt message of caring for the earth and caring for each other. Denver's message is worth repeating: "Be kind to the Earth and to each other." Jim performs with his wife Anne who plays mandolin and guitar and sings harmony.
+
Tix, $18.

Dec 16-Mar 15, in L.A.:
Opening of the new exhibition, “GIVE AND YE SHALL RECEIVE: GIFT GIVING IN THE MIDDLE AGES,” at the Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; parking is $20 daytime, $15 for evening programs.
+
Gift giving has held an important function in society since the Middle Ages, helping people to define their relationships to family and friends, to acquaintances and strangers, to God and to the church. This exhibition of intricate illuminated manuscripts examines models of gift giving found within their pages.
+
Admission to the Getty Center is FREE. Parking is $15 daytime, $10 for evening programs after 5 pm. Hours: Tues–Fri and Sun: 10 am–5:30 pm; Sat 10 am–9 pm. Closed Mondays.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Opened Dec 13, runs through May 10, 2015:
The GRAMMY Museum presents “THE TAYLOR SWIFT EXPERIENCE” as their newest special exhibition, opening Dec 13th on her 25th birthday. Includes never-before-seen photographs and home videos, interactive experiences, hand-written lyrics from her top-charting hits, and iconic costumes, to give visitors an in-depth look at seven-time GRAMMY winner Taylor Swift as a singer, musician, songwriter, entrepreneur and style icon. She is the only artist in history to have three million-selling weeks (2010's “Speak Now,” 2012's “RED” and 2014's “1989”). She is a global superstar and the youngest winner in history of the music industry's highest honor, the GRAMMY Award for “Album of the Year.” She is the first artist since the BEATLES (and the only female artist in history) to log six or more weeks at #1 in the U.S. with three consecutive studio albums. Taylor Swift has an album on Rolling Stone's prestigious “The 50 Greatest Albums of All Time (by women)” list, and Time magazine has named her one the of the “100 Most Influential People in the world,” while she is Billboard's youngest-ever “Woman of the Year” and the only artist to have been awarded this honor twice. The Taylor Swift Experience is on display in the GRAMMY Museum's “Special Exhibits Gallery,” where temporary exhibits are showcased on a rotating basis. Info, www.grammymuseum.org/thetaylorswiftexperience

Through Mar 9; PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION, in San Marino:
Times tba “IRISH & BRITISH ROOTS & AMERICAN PHOTOGRAPHERS” is an exhibition at the Mary Lou and George Boone Gallery in the Huntington Library, 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino 91108; 626-405-2100.
+
This traveling exhibition pairs, for the first time, approximately 150 works by American photographers Paul Caponigro (b. 1932) and Bruce Davidson (b. 1933), enlightened observers of Britain and Ireland in the 1960s and ’70s. For Caponigro, Ireland and Britain became sites of creative energy to which he returned repeatedly. Davidson brought the same gritty street sensibility that had made his Brooklyn Gang series a sensation among photograph collectors. The exhibition examines the artistic, social, and historical forces informing two master photographers as they bring American eyes to enduring landscapes and changing cultural scenes.
+
Runs Nov 8, 2014, through Mar 9, 2015.

-----------------

--------
♪ THIS WEEKEND’s MUSIC ON TV
--------

+=+=+=+=+
Saturday
+=+=+=+=+

Sat & Sun, Dec 20 & 21, on tv:
The weekend’s “NOT MUSIC BUT YOU SHOULD WATCH IT” offering is “MOYERS & COMPANY,” which compares America’s Gilded Age to “THE NEW ROBBER BARONS” with guest historian STEVE FRASER. Airs several times over the course of the weekend on various PBS stations.

+=+=+=+=+

Sat, Dec 20, on tv:
10:30-11 am “SEAN NOS” is a music doc featuring traditional Irish Sean Nos singers. This either re-airs, or another edition of the Irish TV series airs at the same time Sunday. On KLCS4.

+=+=+=+=+

Sat, Dec 20, on tv:
Noon-1 pm MUMFORD & SONS and JEFF LYNNE are among a bunch of musical guests on “LATER…WITH JOOLS HOLLAND” from 2012. On Palladia.

+=+=+=+=+

Sat, Dec 20, on tv:
2-3:30 pm “ELVIS: HE TOUCHED ME” is a 1999 music doc that explores Elvis’ love of gospel music. On KCET.

+=+=+=+=+

Sat, Dec 20, on tv:
3:30-5 pm “CELTIC THUNDER CHRISTMAS” is the troupe’s 2010 special for PBS. On KCET.

Sat, Dec 20, on tv:
10:30-11 pm “THE LIVE ROOM” features SHERYL CROW in a 2014 performance. On Palladia.

+=+=+=+=+

Sat, Dec 20, on tv:
11 pm-midnight “YOU+ME LIVE FROM SANTA MONICA” features the alt-folk duo in a 2014 performance. On Palladia.

+=+=+=+=+

Late Sat / early Sun, Dec 20 / 21, on tv:
Midnight-1 am “STORYTELLERS” features JASON MRAZ in a 2012 performance. On Palladia.

+=+=+=+=+

Late Sat / early Sun, Dec 20 / 21, on tv:
1-2 am “STAGE LEFT: THEATER IN SAN FRANCISCO” examines the history of the SF Actors Workshop from its founding in 1952 through 2010. On Link TV (KCET Link in L.A.)

+=+=+=+=+

Late Sat / early Sun, Dec 20 / 21, on tv:
4-5 am “CONDUCTING HOPE” is a 2013 documentary about a choir in a prison. On Link TV (KCET Link in L.A.)

+=+=+=+=+

Late Sat / early Sun, Dec 20 / 21, on tv:
5-6 am “CHRISTMAS IN NORWAY FROM ST. OLAF’S” is a 2013 holiday special with the famous mixed voice ST. OLAF CHOIR and JENKETOR, an all-female choir. On PBS+.

Sun, Dec 21, on tv:
10:30-11 am “SEAN NOS” is a music doc featuring traditional Irish Sean Nos singers. This either re-airs, or another edition of the Irish TV series airs at the same time Saturday. On KLCS4.

Early Mon, Dec 22, on tv:
6-7 am “THE FIRST SILENT NIGHT” is a new 2014 music documentary that tells the story of the carol, “Silent Night.” This should be worth recording, because the true story of the song is fascinating. On PBS+.

-----------------

--------
♪ TICKET ALERTS
--------

Mon, Dec 22 at 8 pm: “BIG CHRISTMAS SHOW: JIM CURRY'S TRIBUTE TO THE MUSIC OF JOHN DENVER” at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675. Reservations (by phone only) at 626-798-6236.
+
Dec 21 is SOLD-OUT. Get tix for Dec 22 promptly or be disappointed.
+
Husband and wife team Jim and Anne Curry deliver the multi-platinum hits of the great John Denver in a fun-filled evening of singing and stories. Tribute artist Jim Curry's voice was heard in the CBS-TV movie “Take Me Home: The John Denver Story.” He has performed Denver's music in sold-out shows throughout the country and has emerged as today's top performer of Denver's vast legacy of multi-platinum hits. Jim's uncanny ability to mirror John's voice and clean-cut look takes you back to the time when "Rocky Mountain High" "Sunshine" "Calypso" and "Annie's Song" topped the charts, and his popular music had the heartfelt message of caring for the earth and caring for each other. Denver's message is worth repeating: "Be kind to the Earth and to each other." Jim performs with his wife Anne who plays mandolin and guitar and sings harmony.
+
Tix, $18.

Sun, Dec 28, 7 pm: MATT WITLER & BRONWYN KEITH-HYNES play the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675. Reservations (by phone only) at 626-798-6236.
+
MATT WITLER is a Boston based mandolin player who grew up in the Los Angeles area. Starting on the fiddle at the age of nine,Matt fell in love with old time and bluegrass music. At the age of 14 he picked up the mandolin and began to study music in earnest. Matt has spent the last four years studying at the Berklee College of Music. While Matt is rooted in the bluegrass tradition,he has explored and been influenced by Jazz,classical,and pop music. In 2012 he won first place in both the mandolin,and flatpick guitar contests at the Rockygrass bluegrass festival. Matt is a founding member of the Lonely Heartstring Band,a progressive acoustic band that is quickly gaining acclaim in the bluegrass community.
+
BRONWYN KEITH‐HYNES is a Boston-based musician originally from Charlottesville, Virginia. Accepted on a scholarship to Berklee College of Music at age 16,she graduated in 2013 with a Professional Diploma in Violin Performance. Bronwyn is fast gaining recognition for her fiddling across bluegrass and acoustic music circles. Her playing,improvising,and writing are informed by her past five years of intense immersion in the Boston acoustic music scene and time spent studying traditional Irish and Cape Breton music before moving to Boston. Bronwyn has performed with Peter Rowan,The Milk Carton Kids,Anais Mitchell,Joe Pug and Tony Trischka. In 2014 Bronwyn won first place in the Walnut Valley Old Time Fiddle Championship in Winfield,KS. Bronwyn was on staff this summer at Berklee College of Music Five Week Program,teaching private string lessons.
+
Matt and Bronwyn play original instrumental tunes as well as their favorite bluegrass numbers, folk songs, and fiddle tunes.
+
Tix, $15. This will sell-out early, with the much-anticipated homecoming by Matt.

+ + + + +

Mon, Dec 29, 8 pm: STRAIGHT NO CHASER: "THE HAPPY HOUR TOUR, " plays the Fred Kavli Theatre-Thousand Oaks Civic Arts, in Thousand Oaks.
+
If the phrase "male a cappella group" conjures up an image of students in blue blazers, ties, and khakis singing traditional college songs on ivied campuses ... think again. Straight No Chaser (SNC) are neither strait-laced nor straight-faced, but neither are they vaudeville-style kitsch. They have emerged as a phenomenon with a massive fanbase, numerous national TV appearances and proven success with CD releases. They're performing on the heels of the release of Under The Influence, their fourth album release through Atlantic Records. The album features contributions from superstars Jason Mraz, Rob Thomas, Phil Collins, Dolly Parton and more! Straight No Chaser is the real deal, the captivating sound of ten unadulterated human voices coming together to make extraordinary music that is moving people in a fundamental sense ... and with a sense of humor. On the road, Straight No Chaser has built a reputation as an unforgettable live act.
Tix at: http://m.ticketmaster.com/event/0B004CBBFC0EBCB0?artistid=1261643&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=1&brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned_Dec3

+ + + + +

Dec 31: HERSHEY FELDER’S “THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK SING-ALONG” at the Geffen Playhouse in L.A. is a New Year’s Eve special event at Midnight, and a tradition the singer has taken to other cities to ring-in previous years. Info & tix, www.GeffenPlayhouse.com, or call box office at 310-208-5454 or go in person to the box office during business hours.

+=+=+=+=+=+

Dec 31: “NEW YEAR'S EVE AT THE ARCADIA BLUES CLUB,” 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; www.arcadiabluesclub.com; 626-447-9349. The venue’s excellent New Year’s Eve Party always features great blues bands and early bird tix are on sale now; get the best seats and save money, 1st come, 1st served. Venue has full bar and NYE includes dinner. Venue always has good food with generous portions. Great place, but bring earplugs. Seriously. Substantial discount for advance tix: http://arcadiabluesclub.ticketleap.com/

Dec 31: “THE SHAMROCK'S NEW YEAR'S EVE” is taking reservations now for TWO New Year’s Eve parties; In the afternoon they celebrate the arrival of 2015 in Ireland at 4 pm Pacific time, with music by THE DUBLIN ROGUES, who are flying-in directly from Dublin the day before; this one (2-6 pm) lets you celebrate the New Year WITH FAMILY AND CHILDREN. Their SECOND New Year's Eve Party brings music by THE BRICK TOP BLAGGERS to welcome in 2015 in the Pacific time zone; a $10 per person non-refundable cover charge is required to secure that reservation, with table guaranteed from 8 pm; Champagne at midnight & party favors included. At the Shamrock Irish Pub and Eatery, 39252 Winchester Rd, Ste 145 Murrieta 92592; 951-696-5252; e-mail requests for NYE reservations to Paul@getshamrocked.com; more info, www.theshamrockirishpubandeatery.com

+ + + + +

Jan 6, 8 pm: WILLIE NELSON & FAMILY play the City National Grove of Anaheim.
+
This is a dinner-optional event. A three course prix fixe dinner including salad, entree options, and dessert is available for purchase for $30. If you plan to dine, we recommend arriving at 6 pm. Dinner concludes at 7:30 pm. Go to www.citynationalgroveofanaheim.com for menu details.
Tix at: http://ticketmaster.com/event/09004D30A3D45AAF?artistid=732878&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=2&brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned_Dec3

+ + + + +

Jan 7-Feb 1: “JACK LEMMON RETURNS” as performed by his son, Chris Lemmon in a musical story-telling style, plays the Broad Stage at the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center, 1310 11th St, Santa Monica 90401; 310-434-3200.
+
The son of the Hollywood legend who starred in “Some Like It Hot,” “The Odd Couple,” and ao much more, performs “an immensely personal, and ultimately heartwarming story” about his Academy Award-winning father and their enduring relationship. Written and directed by Hershey Felder and performed by Chris as his father, “Jack Lemmon Returns” is one-man show that captures the magic of a bygone era, when Marilyn Monroe, Gregory Peck, James Cagney, Jimmy Stewart, and Shirley MacLaine were but a handful of the many stars who would pass through the Lemmon's Hollywood Hills home. The performance includes George and Ira Gershwin's "Love is Here to Stay" and "'S Wonderful," “Jack Lemmon Returns” is a loving tribute to a world famous dad, told with respect and dignity. Tix now available at 310-434-3200; www.thebroadstage.com; www.events.smc.edu.

+ + + + +

Sat, Jan 10, at 2 & 7 pm: DAVE STAMEY, whose many awards most recently include “Male Performer of the Year” from the Western Music Association, and winner of the Will Rogers Award for Male Vocalist of the Year from the Academy of Western Artists, and a winner and five-time nominee for Songwriter Of The Year, plays the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675. Reservations (by phone only) at 626-798-6236. Don’t dawdle: he always sells-out here. Tix, either show, $25.

+ + + + +

Sat, Jan 10, 8 pm: THE JAYHAWKS, now on a West Coast Tour, play their L.A. show at the Fonda Theatre, 6126 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood. Tix, $30, now available at: http://www.fondatheatre.com/events/detail/255970

+ + + + +

Tue, Jan 13, 8 pm: “THE DROP: RYAN BINGHAM” in the Clive Davis Theatre at the Grammy Museum, L.A. General advance tix go on sale Thu, Dec 18, at noon. (American-Express-Card-only presale ended Wed, Dec 17, at 10:30 pm.)
+
Ryan Bingham needed some peace and quiet. Free of the burdens that had saddled him during the writing and recording of his recent albums, he relocated to an old Airstream trailer tucked away in the mountains of California, camping out for several weeks and embracing the solitude to dig down deep and craft his most powerful album yet: “Fear and Saturday Night” is set for release on Jan 20, 2015.
+
Bingham faces down his past with a poetic grace throughout the album. Recorded mostly live with a brand new backing band and under the guidance of producer-engineer Jim Scott, “Fear and Saturday Night” opens with "Nobody Knows My Trouble," an autobiographical ballad about trying to outrun a painful past and finding redemption both in the strings of a guitar and in hitting the road with the love of your life. The lead single, "Radio," is about coping with a darkness that doesn't want to let go, while "Hands of Time" deals with accepting what's behind you and moving forward with grit and determination. It's the hard-learned lessons, through both good times and bad, that helped make Bingham the man he is today, as a GRAMMY and Academy Award winner.
+
In an interview will discuss his new album and the journey he took to create it. Following that interview, moderated by Scott Goldman, Vice President of MusiCares and the GRAMMY Foundation, Bingham will perform. Doors open at 7:30 pm. Tix, $20, in-person at the Museum Box Office, by phone at 213-765-6803 or online at www.grammymuseum.org

+ + + + +

Wed, Jan 14, 8 pm: “AN EVENING WITH WALTER EGAN” in the Clive Davis Theatre at the Grammy Museum, L.A. General advance tix go on sale Thu, Dec 18, at noon. (American-Express-Card-only presale ended Wed, Dec 17, at 10:30 pm.)
+
Egan's composition "Hearts on Fire" was recorded by GRAM PARSONS and EMMYLOU HARRIS on the classic album “Grievous Angel.” More than just a writer and singer, Egan has played on many sessions and has worked with such luminaries as STEVIE NICKS, LINDSEY BUCKINGHAM, DON HENLEY, JACKSON BROWNE, LINDA RONDSTADT, and even played bass for the classic group, SPIRIT.
+
He’s best known among more mainstream audiences for his chart-topper, "Magnet and Steel." Walter Egan is more than a one-hit wonder. With numerous covers of his songs around the world, Egan has released ten solo CDs as well as three with the Brooklyn Coyboys and six with the Malibooz. "Magnet and Steel" has been featured in commercials and major motion pictures that include “Deuce Bigelow,” “Boogie Nights,” “Overnight Delivery,” and “The Night We Never Met.”
+
Today, Egan continues to play with his WALTERNATIVE Band and with his surf band, the MALIBOOZ. In February 2014, his tenth solo album, “Myth America,” was released on the Classic Music Vault label. His exhibit of paintings, "The Martyrs of Rock" was shown in Washington DC and will open at the Mister Musichead gallery in Los Angeles in January 2015.
+
Following an interview with Museum executive director, Bob Santelli, Egan will perform. Doors open at 7:30 pm. Tix, $20, in-person at the Museum Box Office, by phone at 213-765-6803 or online at www.grammymuseum.org

+ + + + +

Wed, Jan 14, 7 pm: AKIRA KUROSAWA's “RED BEARD” 50th-anniversary screening is in USC’s “Visions & Voices” series, in the Ray Stark Family Theatre, School of Cinematic Arts 108, on the USC Campus in University Park (L.A.) Admission is FREE and open to everyone, but RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED and it will fill-up. Reserve your seat online beginning Tue, Dec 9, at 9 am, at www. visionsandvoices.usc.edu
+
“Red Beard” is set in a public hospital serving the indigent in rural, feudal Japan. The 1965 film asks profound humanist and existential questions relating to social injustice. Is there a way out of the dispiriting cycle in which victims express their pain by hurting others? How can we break cycles of suffering and violence? “Red Beard” is the last black-and-white film by Kurosawa, and the last Kurosawa film starring legendary Japanese actor TOSHIRO MIFUNE.
+
The screening is presented in conjunction with a live stage performance the FOLLOWING NIGHT by LOS ANGELES POVERTY DEPARTMENT (“LAPD”), the renowned theatre troupe made up of homeless and formerly homeless artists, with the theatre company celebrating its own 30th anniversary. The actors present their acclaimed work “RED BEARD, ” also free, but requiring a reservation. This is quite special, with a classic film and live theatre together over two nights.
+
The other half of USC’s “RED BEARD / RED BEARD” presentation:
+
Thu, Jan 15, 7 pm: The “RED BEARD” theatrical performance by the LOS ANGELES POVERTY DEPARTMENT acting troupe, directed by John Malpede (without the film), is in the McClintock Theatre on the USC Campus in University Park (Los Angeles). Admission is FREE and open to everyone, but, like the above event, RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED and it will fill-up. Reserve your seat online beginning Tue, Dec 9, at 9 am, at www. visionsandvoices.usc.edu
+
Renowned theatre troupe LOS ANGELES POVERTY DEPARTMENT (“LAPD”), celebrating the 30th anniversary of their founding, is the first theatre company in the United States composed of homeless and formerly homeless artists. “LAPD” connects the experiences of people living in poverty to the social forces that shape their lives. “Red Beard/Red Beard” is a poetic and powerful work that challenges viewers to reflect on possibilities for breaking cycles of poverty.

Fri, Jan 16, 2-5 pm: Renowned theatre troupe LOS ANGELES POVERTY DEPARTMENT (“LAPD”), presents the “LAPD PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP” in the Wallis Annenberg Hall (ANN), Room 106, on the USC Campus in University Park (L.A.) Admission is FREE and open to everyone, but RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED and it will fill-up. Reserve your space online beginning Tue, Dec 9, at 9 am, at www. visionsandvoices.usc.edu
+
John Malpede and Henriëtte Brouwers of “LAPD” theatre will lead a performance workshop that draws on their acting troupe’s revolutionary practices for creating community-based theatre. Malpede founded the “Los Angeles Poverty Department” in 1985. He has taught at UCLA, at Tisch School of the Arts at NYU, and at the Amsterdam School for Advanced Research in Theater and Dance (DasArts). Brouwers is a performer, director and teacher who has worked with “LAPD” since 2000. Born in the Netherlands, Brouwers was invited to present her work in the United States by the Theatre Project in Baltimore in 1993, and has since performed and taught at universities and theatres around the country.

Jan 22: “ECLECTIC GUITARS” featuring ERIC JOHNSON & MIKE STERN at the City National Grove of Anaheim; tix now on sale. This one is NOT a dinner show. Tix at: http://ticketmaster.com/event/09004D43F109C986?artistid=735397&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=1&brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned_Dec3

Sat, Jan 24: “THE MET IN HD: LEHÁR'S ‘THE MERRY WIDOW’” is an HD Opera Broadcast (delayed broadcast), in the Eileen Norris Cinema Theatre / Frank Sinatra Hall, on the USC Campus in University Park (L.A.) It begins with a Pre-Opera Discussion at noon, followed by the HD broadcast at 1 pm. Admission is FREE and open to everyone, but RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED and it will fill-up. Reserve your space online beginning Tue, Dec 9, at 9 am, at www. visionsandvoices.usc.edu
+
The great Renée Fleming stars as the beguiling femme fatale who captivates all of Paris in Lehár’s enchanting operetta, seen in a new staging by Broadway virtuoso director and choreographer Susan Stroman (“The Producers, ” “Oklahoma!, ” “Contact”). Stroman and her design team of Julian Crouch (“Satyagraha, ” “The Enchanted Island”) and costume designer William Ivey Long (“Cinderella, ” “Grey Gardens, ” “Hairspray”) have created an art-nouveau setting that climaxes with singing and dancing grisettes at the legendary Maxim’s.

+ + + + +

Sun, Jan 25, 8 pm: JESSE COOK plays the City National Grove of Anaheim. This is a dinner-optional event. A three-course prix fixe dinner including salad, entree options, and dessert is available for purchase for $30. If you plan to dine, we recommend arriving at 6 pm. Dinner concludes at 7:30 pm. Go to www.citynationalgroveofanaheim.com for menu details.
Tix at: http://ticketmaster.com/event/09004D22F74E37FC&brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned_Dec3

Feb 21 & 22: "THIS AIN'T NO MOUSE MUSIC!" is a great documentary with Cajun, Zydeco, and Texas Blues, playing only on Feb 21st and 22nd at the Art Theatre, 2025 E 4th St, Long Beach 90814; 562-438-3723; arttheatrelongbeach.com. With a limited run, it will sell-out early.
+
The film is the Story of Chris Strachwitz and Arhoolie Records., a feature-length documentary by Chris Simon and Maureen Gosling. “Smokin’ hot!” — Radio One, New Zealand. “One of the best music documentaries around...This film puts the heart and soul back into music and opens your mind to incredible artists you may never have heard of.” — The Film Reel, Toronto.
+
“Chris Strachwitz is a detective of sounds, an archaeologist of the deep American music, music with roots that strike straight into the country’s heartland. He is the guiding force behind the legendary Arhoolie Records, producing albums that the Rolling Stones and many others played the grooves right off of. Since 1960, Strachwitz has been recording the authentic pulses of the great American music, throbbing away in the backwoods of the nation. His label offers an unparalleled catalogue of blues, Cajun, wild Hillbilly country, Tex-Mex and New Orleans R&B. These diverse musical strands seem to have grown right out of the ground they are played on. With tape-recorder in hand, Strachwitz traveled to plantations and prisons, roadhouses and whorehouses, churches and bayou juke joints. He returned with recordings that would revolutionize the sound of popular music. In This Ain't No Mouse Music!, their vivid portrait of an obsessive sonic sleuth, filmmakers Chris Simon and Maureen Gosling take a hip-shaking stroll from New Orleans to Appalachia and right into very the DNA of rock’n’roll. In this beautifully shot film, we come face to face with the creators of indigenous music, from the great Clifton Chenier to fiddler Michael Doucet, from Flaco Jimenez to the Pine Leaf Boys, playing songs that are endemic to their place and circumstance, to dialect and class, to climate and landscape. Their music is now highly endangered by the merciless steamroller of pop culture, assimilation and commercialism, which makes Strachwitz's desperate pursuit to track down every last artist all the more urgent. But these songs aren’t meant to be locked away in a Smithsonian vault to be decoded by folklorists and musical anthropologists. This film is a living cultural history with a soundtrack that bites and kicks and screams. Even 50 years later, Arhoolie’s records remain alive, unruly and still so sharp that some songs can cut you right down to the soul. — Jeffrey St. Clair, Author ‘Born Under a Bad Sky.’”
+
More at: http://nomousemusic.com

About the Picture, and more...

WHAT picture? Click "View Web Version" if you're reading on your mobile device and you don't "get the picture..." ================================== ======================== ABOUT THE GUIDE'S EDITOR: Longtime journalist, with awards for print, publishing, broadcasting, more, including the Music Legend Award, presented to just one honoree each year at the Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest & Folk Festival. Creator and host of radio's award-winning "Tied to the Tracks" that introduced an Acoustic Americana / acoustic renaissance format to Los Angeles radio, with live in-studio performance-interviews with wonderful musicians; over 300 performing guests including GRAMMY and Juno winners and nominees.